Ancient Theatre, Archaeological site in Δήμος Ρόδου, Greece
The Ancient Theatre of Rhodes is an archaeological site on Monte Smith hill, the acropolis of the ancient city of Rhodes, about 360 feet (110 m) above sea level. It is a small marble theatre from the 2nd century BC, also called the Odeion or "Little Theatre," with its semicircular rows of seats carved into the natural slope.
Monte Smith hill was the heart of the ancient city of Rhodes and held several monuments from the Hellenistic period, including this theatre, a stadium, and temples. The hill took its modern name in 1802, when an English admiral set up an observation post there to watch over naval movements in the area.
The theatre on Monte Smith was used not just for performances but also as a place where rhetoric and public speaking were taught. Visitors today can still see the semicircular orchestra floor and a few rows of stone seats that hint at how the space once functioned.
The theatre is part of the Monte Smith archaeological park, which also includes an ancient stadium and temple remains, all reachable on a single walk. The hill sits a short ride from the center of Rhodes town, so arriving by vehicle is convenient, though walking back downhill is easy and pleasant.
Julius Caesar and Cicero are said to have studied near this theatre when Rhodes was a known center for rhetoric. The larger "Great Theatre" that once stood on the same hill has never been found by archaeologists, and its exact location remains unknown.
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