![the priests of asklepios the priests of asklepios](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/s38mXPE5eqk/maxresdefault.jpg)
Many visitors are overwhelmed by the theatre, and tend to quickly run through the rest of the archaeological complex. The theatre is surrounded by the typical Peloponnesian landscape, and the area is surprisingly calm and quiet, especially if you visit off-season. Its incredible acoustics and crystal-clear sound amaze visitors to this day and age.Īs for its location on the slope of Mt Kynortion, the word “stunning” is really an understatement. The theatre’s design was unique throughout Greece, and aimed to enhance the viewing experience. The orchestra, the circular stage where the performers appeared, had a diameter of 20 metres. In order for the audience to move around, several corridors separated the rows of seats into smaller sections. The theatre seats were divided into a lower and an upper tier. Unlike many other Greek theatres, for example the one in Milos, it wasn’t modified during the Roman era. It is estimated that it could fit audiences of 13,000-14,000 people. Originally, its capacity was around 8,000 people, but it increased in the 2nd century BC. The main materials used for its construction were limestone and poros stone. The Epidaurus theatre is one of the best preserved theatres in Greece. Perhaps drama and art therapy aren’t as new as we thought! What does the Epidaurus ancient theatre look like? Interestingly, the ancient Greeks believed that artistic performances could improve people’s physical and psychological health. The theatre was built to provide a space for musical competitions and performances, which would be held to honour the popular god. So how about the ancient theatre of Epidaurus? What is its connection with the ancient god?Īccording to the famous ancient Greek geographer Pausanias, the theatre of Epidaurus was built in 340 – 330 BC, at the time when the ancient sanctuary was very popular. New monuments and buildings were constructed, to accommodate the growing numbers of visitors. Still, the sanctuary in Epidaurus became the most important therapeutic establishment in Ancient Greece. In some regions, it was even believed that Asclepius could bring people back from the Underworld. It’s worth noting that there were many more sanctuaries of Asklepios in different areas of Greece, operating in a similar fashion.
![the priests of asklepios the priests of asklepios](https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/assassinscreed/images/8/8a/ACOD_Written_in_Stone.png)
Patients and pilgrims travelled from far and wide to be treated. Over the years, the therapeutic powers of Asklepios became more and more famous. The ancient complex became the equivalent of a modern hospital / wellness centre. The important healing centre of Epidaurus This is undoubtedly related to the presence of therapeutic springs in the area. In turn, Apollo Maleatas had replaced and earlier deity who was worshipped during the Mycenean era. His cult followed that of his father, Apollo Maleatas, who was known to cure the diseased since around 1,000 BC. However, Asklepios wasn’t the first healing god worshipped in this area. A gold-and-ivory chryselephantine statue of Asklepios was placed inside. The impressive monument was destroyed in the 5th century AD, and only a few ruins are visible today. The sanctuary developed into the most important healing center in ancient Greece.Ī grand limestone temple dedicated to the god was built around 380 – 370 BC. Towards the beginning of the 4th century BC, a sanctuary of Asclepius was established in the area of Argolis. It was built to host musical and theatrical shows in his honour.īut what’s the connection between a theatre and the god of medicine? To answer this question, we need to go back in time. The ancient theatre is located inside the grounds of the sanctuary of Asklepios / Asclepius, the ancient god of medicine and healing. Not everyone realizes that the site was a lot more than this. Most visitors know Epidaurus for its ancient theatre with the world-famous acoustics. The importance of Epidaurus in Ancient Greece Let’s have a look into the site’s history, and why it was so important. Other nearby attractions include Ancient Mycenae and the city of Nafplion. Known for its superb acoustics, this magnificent theatre is still used for performances and ancient drama.Įpidaurus is in the region of Argolis in the Peloponnese, a comfortable 2-hour drive from Athens. Its official name is Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus, or Asklepieion of Epidaurus.įor most people, the highlight of their visit is the Ancient theatre of Epidaurus. The archaeological site in Epidaurus is one of the most significant ancient sites in Greece. Here is some information about this spectacular UNESCO site. The ancient theatre of Epidaurus is a popular day trip from Athens.