The Ancient Theater of Epidaurus Greece, Asclepius, map, opening hours, hotels

The Theater of Epidaurus

The Ancient Theater of Epidaurus is famous for its exceptional acoustics, its absolute symmetry and the way it “sits” in the landscape. It is considered as the biggest and most beautiful amplifier made of stone.

Hotels and rooms to let in Argolida

It was built in the 4th century B.C. on the west side of mount Kynortion by Polykleitos and its capacity was extended in the 2nd century. Every summer, in its 14.000 seats, it welcomes the lovers of ancient drama who come to enjoy the plays of great tragic and comic poets.

Alongside the Sanctuary of Asclepius, the exceptional theater of Epidaurus is built amphitheatrically on the west side of mount Kyniorto and it is one of the best preserved theaters of Ancient Greece.

Information - Opening hours

The Ancient Theater of Epidaurus
tel: (+30) 27530.22.009

Opening hours
winter:
from 1/11 to 31/3: 08:00 - 18:00

summer:
from 1/4 to 30/10: 8:00-20:00

* Due to possible changes of opening hours please contact for exact hours.
Archaeological sites, museums, monuments

It was built in the 4th century by the great architect Polykleitos and it was initially designated for musical and singing contests and ancient drama performances linked to the worship of Asclepius. In the 2nd century B.C. the main theater (cavea) was extended to 14000 seats. In the following centuries, unlike many other ancient theaters, its form (cavea, orchestra, stage) did not change and remained continuously in use.

However, in 395 A.D. the Goths caused severe damage to the place, while in 426 A.D.. Theodosius II banned all activities at the sanctuary of Asclepius and the sanctuary was closed permanently. This great structure was brought to light 15 centuries later, in 1881, by the excavations of Panagis Kavadias and the Archaeological Company. Restoration works began in the 20th century in order to preserve this exquisite monument.

Today the theater is renowned for its perfect architecture and its astounding acoustics. It is considered to be the most perfect and great stone loudspeaker of the world. The three-section theater structure is perfectly represented in this theater. The main theater (cavea) consists of 55 rows of seats divided in two sections. The orchestra preserves its circular form while only the foundation is saved from the skene. On both sides columns of ionic style connect the skene with the cavea.

Every summer since 1955, the year in which the Epidaurus Festival was established, great Greek and foreign actors perform ancient dramas and modern plays here.

Source: GNTO

Accommodation
For your stay in Argolida and several areas close to The Theater of Epidaurus, you can book a room in one of the hotels and Bed & Breakfast inns.
In Nafplio, Argos, as well as in many other areas close to the Theater of Epidaurus, there are hotels and accommodations of various categories and types (rooms to let, residences, Bed & Breakfast inns, studios, hostels, guesthouses and furnished apartments) that can satisfy every visitor's demands and needs for a pleasant and enjoyable stay.
You will find wonderful hotels, rooms and apartments to let of all categories and price ranges.

Access
By car:
Access to Argolida is easy by car through the existing road network. The time that you need to get there from Athens is 90 - 120 min by car.
The best way to explore, wander around Argolida and discover its nature and archaeological sights is to have your own vehicle.
It is worth visiting places where local tranportation and organized tours do not reach.

Indicative routes and distances from the Archaeological site of Mycenae:
Athens: 121 km
Patras: 165 km
Ioannina: 374 km
Sparta: 112 km

By bus:
There are frequent daily routes to and from Athens and several areas of Argolida.
Nafplio: (+30) 27520.27.323
Athens: (+30) 210.51.34.588
Argos: (+30) 27510.69.323
Kranidi: (+30) 27540.21.218
Isthmus: (+30) 27410.83.000
Galatas: (+30) 22980.42.480

By train:
For destinations to Argos, Nafplio and Mili. Information (OSE), Athens, tel: (+30) 210.51.24.910

For your convenience, you can use the route map on the field “Routes” with information about the mileage, the time you need and the route you will follow, selecting the points of interest.