Aspendos Theater, Roman theater in Antalya Province, Turkey
Aspendos Theater is a Roman amphitheater with a horseshoe-shaped auditorium that could hold around 7,000 spectators divided into two sections. The structure remains remarkably intact with its original architectural features still visible.
The theater was built in 155 AD under Emperor Marcus Aurelius after a competition determined the future direction of the city of Aspendos. Architect Zenon designed it as the winning submission in this architectural contest.
The inscriptions around the theater are written in Greek and Latin, honoring local gods and the Imperial house. They reveal who funded the building and what role it played in the community.
The site is best explored in daylight since the entire structure sits open-air and relies on natural light. Visitors should be prepared for uneven ground and stairs, as the ancient design includes original steps and columns.
The theater had a sophisticated shading system with a retractable linen canopy held by columns, leaving holes in the structure that are still visible today. These holes show how Romans provided comfort to spectators even in hot climates.
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