The ancient theater of Epidaurus was built in the 4th century BC by architect Polykleitos the Younger as Pausanias mentions and is considered one of the most well-preserved ancient theaters in the world. It originally had 34 series and later expanded to an additional 21 in Roman times.
The theater is known for its acoustics, providing all spectators, regardless of location, perfect listening. With a maximum capacity of 13,000 – 14,000 spectators, the theater hosted the music, song and drama events included in the worship of Asclepius. It was also used as a means of treating patients, as it was believed that watching dramatic performances had beneficial effects on patients’ mental and physical health.
In addition, a scientific study published in 2007 by the Georgia Institute of Technology has shown that stunning acoustics are the result of an advanced design system that works as follows : limestone seating filters low-frequency sounds and amplifies high-frequency sounds, so that the whispers of the spectators can be quenched and the voices of the actors intensified.
The area around the Epidaurus theater was known in ancient times as a famous healing center dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine.
The theater of the city of Epidaurus was discovered in 1970 and fully opened in 1989.
The ancient theater of Epidaurus has been included by UNESCO in the list of World Heritage Sites.
During the months of July and August, the theater performances are presented in the framework of the Greek Festival.
