Great Theatre of Pompeii
Great Theatre of Pompeii, Roman theatre in Pompeii, Italy
The Great Theatre of Pompeii is a stone structure built into a natural hillside that could seat approximately 5,000 spectators in its semicircular arrangement. The seating sections, orchestra area, and stage foundations remain visible, showing the original Roman design and construction methods.
Construction of this theatre began in the second century BCE, making it one of the earliest permanent Roman theatre structures ever built. Its design influenced how later theatres were constructed throughout the Roman world.
The theatre served as a gathering place where Pompeians of different social ranks came together to watch performances and celebrate shared moments. This reflected how public spectacles were woven into the fabric of daily urban life and community identity.
Access to the theatre follows designated pathways within the archaeological complex, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended for navigating the site. The space offers limited shade, making early morning or late afternoon visits more pleasant during warm months.
The theatre preserves exceptional natural acoustics that allow sound from the stage to reach the highest seats without any electronic help. Visitors can still hear this effect today when someone speaks from the original stage area.
Location: Pompei
Part of: Pompeii Regio VIII Insula 7, Pompeii
Address: Scavi archeologici di Pompei - Regio VIII - Insula 7 - 20
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 07:00-19:00
Website: http://pompeiisites.org/sito_archeologico/teatro-grande
GPS coordinates: 40.74880,14.48842
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41
Naples is a city that surprises you at every turn. Passion for football, deep religious faith, and the energy of daily life run through its narrow streets and grand squares. Walk through the city, taste real Neapolitan pizza, visit churches and monasteries filled with artistic treasures. Around...
Temple of Isis
46 m
Triangular forum
60 m
Quadriportico of the Theatre of Pompeii
63 m
Doric temple
67 m
Little Theatre of Pompeii
49 m
Pastry shop
74 m
Temple of Asclepius
60 m
Workshop of Sextilius Verus (I.3.14)
87 m
Workshop (I.3.9)
82 m
Thermopolium (I.3.2)
70 m
House of the Actors
84 m
Shop (VIII.4.43)
84 m
House (VIII.4.30)
59 m
Panificio di Felix
81 m
Shop (VIII.4.40)
77 m
Thermopolium
77 m
House of the Sculptor
56 m
Unnamed domus
72 m
Public latrine (VIII.4.41)
83 m
Shop (VIII.4.28)
78 m
Shop (VIII.4.44)
87 m
House (VIII.4.33)
61 m
Steps to upper floor (VIII.4.32)
59 m
Shop (VIII.4.31)
62 m
Shop with dwelling (VIII.4.37)
70 m
House (VIII.7.26)
60 m
Shop (VIII.4.39)
73 m
Stable (VIII.4.42)
84 mVisited 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