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The Great Theatre of Epidaurus, Epidavros

4.8

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Historic Site Arena / Stadium Must See

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The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is a theatre in the Greek city of Epidaurus, located on the southeast end of the sanctuary dedicated to the ancient Greek God of medicine, Asclepius. It is built on the west side of Cynortion Mountain, near modern Lygourio, and belongs to the Epidaurus Municipality. It is considered to be the most perfect ancient Greek theatre with regard to acoustics and aesthetics.
According to Pausanias, the ancient theatre was constructed by the architect Polykleitos the Younger. Pausanias praises the theatre for its symmetry and beauty. At a maximum capacity of 13,000 to 14,000 spectators, the theatre hosted music, singing and dramatic games that were included in the worship of Asclepius. It was also used as a means to heal patients, since there was a belief that the observation of dramatic shows had positive effects on mental and physical health.
Today, the monument attracts a large number of Greek and foreign visitors and is used for the performance of ancient drama plays. The first modern performance conducted at the theatre was Sophocles's tragedy Electra. It was played in 1938, directed by Dimitris Rontiris, starring Katina Paxinou and Eleni Papadaki.

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The Great Theatre of Epidaurus Reviews

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• By Ron S

  It's a grand structure. Since we happened to be the only visitors there at the time we tested the acoustics with my son standing in the stage and talking in his usual voice while I stood in the...  more »

• By frugalarnie

  The Great Theatre of Epidauros is a magnificent place. Structured for exceptional acoustics and presentation, it is an architectural marvel. Over 2000 years old, it is still used in the summer for...  more »

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• By Anna Dermitzaki

  Do not miss this one in a lifetime opportunity. Amazing theater with great acoustics. Almost all the plays have over-titles. Go early, as been late here will not be appropriate. If you can, bring a small pillow to sit on as the seats can be uncomfortable.

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• By Rick B

  The Greeks built something special here. If you have the opportunity to see it do not pass it up. 2400 years it has stood with perfect acoustics - simply amazing

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