Theatre of Sparta, Roman theatre ruins in Sparti, Greece
The Theatre of Sparta features a horseshoe-shaped orchestra and displays architectural elements from multiple construction periods between 30 BC and 400 AD.
The construction of the theatre began during the reign of Eurikles Herklanos around 30-20 BC, with Emperor Vespasian later adding a two-story marble stage.
The structure accommodated up to 17,000 spectators across 32 rows in the lower section and 17 rows in the upper section for performances and gatherings.
Archaeological excavations of the theatre started in 1906 by the British School at Athens and continue today with recent restoration efforts funded at 1.6 million euros.
The theatre utilized a mobile wooden stage that moved on wheels along stone tracks, making it adaptable for different types of performances and ceremonies.
Location: Sparta Municipality
Architectural style: ancient Roman architecture
GPS coordinates: 37.08207,22.42355
Latest update: March 7, 2025 10:23
Ancient Greek theaters demonstrate skilled architecture developed between the 5th and 3rd centuries BC. Built into hillsides, these structures utilized natural terrain to create stone seating and enhance acoustic performance. They served as venues for tragedies and comedies, as well as gathering spaces during religious festivals and panhellenic games. Most theaters are located in mainland Greece and on the islands, with notable examples such as Epidaurus in Argolis, renowned for its exceptional sound clarity, or the Theater of Dionysus in Athens, considered the cradle of Western theater where works by Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides were performed. Additional sites are found across the eastern Mediterranean, including Miletus in present-day Turkey and Philippi in northern Greece. Some of these structures were modified during the Roman period, such as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, which incorporated Roman architectural features while maintaining its function as a performance space. Many of these venues, which could seat between 5,000 and 18,000 spectators, remain important remnants of ancient Greek social and cultural life.
Mystras
5.1 km
Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia
1 km
Cave of Caiada
7.5 km
Menelaion
3.2 km
Vaphio beehive tomb
7.9 km
Archaeological Museum of Sparta
1.1 km
Archaeological site of Mystra
5.1 km
Agia Sofia church (Mystras)
5.2 km
Pantanassa Monastery
4.9 km
Peribleptos Monastery
4.8 km
Brontochion Monastery
5.1 km
Acropolis & Fortification Castle of Mystras
5.1 km
Archaeological Museum of Mystras
4.9 km
Palace of Despots of Mystra
5.1 km
Metropolis of Mystras
4.9 km
Sainopouleio theatre, Laconia
3.3 km
Skias
281 m
Tomb of Leonidas
624 m
Mystras Castle
5.1 km
Agioi Theodoroi, Mystra
5 km
Category:Hodigitria (Mystras)
5.2 km
Saint George church (Mystras)
4.8 km
Evangelistria church
5 km
Temple of Athena Chalkioikos
112 m
Agios Nikolaos church (Mystras)
5.1 km
Koumantarios Gallery of Sparta - Branch of the National Gallery
751 m
Statue of Leonidas, Sparta
541 m
Municipal Megaron of Sparta
1.1 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes