Epidaurus Amphitheater, Greece

In Greece, one of the most interesting amphitheatres is located in Epidaurus. It was built in the 4th century BC and designed by Polykleitos. The ancient theater in Epidaurus is not only one of the oldest, preserved to this day, but is also one of the largest. It was originally designed for 15000 spectators. The history of the construction of the theater is very interesting. It was not built for bloody battles and executions.

In the fourth century there was a great Asklepieion in Epidauros. Thousands of people came here to be healed. The ancient theater was built for patients. Performances were considered to be one of the most effective therapeutic methods. Until the end of the 19th century the ancient theater was unknown to general public. It was discovered by an archaeologist Panagis Kavadias.

The archaeologist and his group conducted the researches on the territory of the ancient city in the period from 1870 to 1926. The amphitheater discovered by them was reconstructed a few years later. In 1938 the first performance 'Elektra' took place there. The main roles were played by Eleni Papadaki and Katina Paxino. During the Second World War theatrical performances were suspended, the arena was partially destroyed. After the war the amphitheater was renovated to the shortest deadlines. Since 1955, the antique construction in Epidauros is a permanent venue for the theater festival. The festival is always held in summer, in high season. To the beginning - Colosseum