This is a place that attracts visitors from all around the world. One of the most important sites of Greek antiquity, Epidaurus was believed to be the birthplace of the healing god and son of Apollo, Asklipios. A healing center was built there, a sanctuary as well as a center for arts. In 1988, it has been inscribed on the world heritage list.
One of the most well preserved buildings of the sanctuary and one of the most well preserved ancient theatres in the world is the Theatre of Epidaurus. It remains in such good condition that it still works as a theatre. Imagine that it was built in 4th century BC.
For many years, my summers were connected with this place. There was not one year from childhood till later on that I wouldn't go with my family and see at least one play during the summer festival or go for an one-day excursion in springtime. The road was pretty bad, narrow with endless turns. Now there is a new one when you get there from my town in no time. The old road has become the motorcyclist's favorite route on Sundays :)
Old theatres were usually built on hills taking advantage of the existing landscape. This theatre is no exception.
The ancient people knew well where to build anything and in this case we talking about one of the most important places in ancient Greek history. I find it difficult to track down modern buildings in perfect harmony with the surrounding environment. Maybe it is the era of showing off? It might have always been this way, I am not sure, but the theatre is in perfect match with the landscape. Also the symmetry of its parts and the its harmony.
Its acoustics are exceptional. Even at the upper seats, wherever you are, you can hear all sounds clear. And if you think this is a small theater, it has a capacity of over 12.000 seats, some say up to 14.000 and the actors have no need of microphones in order to be heard.
A scientific study revealed the seats of the theatre play a crucial role in the acoustics, “the seats, which constitute a corrugated surface, serve as an acoustic filter that passes sound coming from the stage at the expense of surrounding acoustic noise… Whether a coincidence or not, the theater of Epidaurus was built with optimized shape and dimensions.”
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You can visit it all year round. A visit on its own is a beautiful experience and if someone can combine it with a play during the summer festival, then it will be unforgettable. Imagine the actors coming to the stage just after the sunset, the feeling of being of the play under the stars knowing that thousands of years ago people like you were also watching a play just like you do, a magic collective sharing through time. If the moon is full, you can still see the mountains around. And if it is not, then you are under the stars initiated in a unique feeling.
Thanks so much for reading :)
All the pictures and the words are mine.
If you would like to know more about me this is my introduction post.