Greek Theatre of Segesta, Greek theatre in Calatafimi-Segesta, Italy.
The Greek Theatre of Segesta sits on the highest point of Monte Barbaro and takes advantage of the natural slope for its structure. It held roughly 5000 spectators in seven wedge-shaped seating sections divided by a central corridor.
The theatre was built in the late 3rd century BCE when Segesta was a thriving Greek settlement. Its hilltop location symbolically linked the divine realm above with the community below.
The theatre served as a gathering place for the community to watch performances and hold public assemblies. It was central to how people spent their leisure time and made collective decisions.
Visitors reach the theatre via a paved road leading to the western side. The pathways are accessible, and climbing to the top rewards you with wide views across the landscape.
Unlike most Greek theatres, the seating area does not rest directly on bedrock but sits on specially built support walls. This construction method was an innovative solution to adapt building techniques to the challenging hillside location.
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