Epidaurus

candid Greece tips

 

Why
Epidaurus
in Greece is special

The ancient Greek site of Epidaurus has a colossal amphitheatre (see photo). It is noted for its stunning symmetrical design, impressive acoustics, and remarkable condition.

Epidaurus
tips & insights

History in brief

The Epidaurus theatre of Greece was built in the 4th century BC. About a thousand years later, it was abandoned, neglected and gradually covered with earth. It lay buried until excavations began in 1881.

Enormous capacity

The Epidaurus cultural venue in Peloponnesus, Greece can accommodate 14,000 theatergoers.

Acoustics

They are extraordinary. From an upper-row seat, you can hear a soft-voiced actor without aid of an electronic or other artificial amplification device.

Festival

Today, a world-renowned annual festival takes place in the open-air Epidaurus theatre from mid-June to late-August. It is one of the top theatrical events in Greece. Dramas by Aristophanes, Euripides, Sophocles and other illustrious ancient Greek playwrights are performed.

Sanctuary of Ascelpius

at Epidaurus

Healing center

The ruins of Sanctuary of Ascelpius are near the theater. 2500 years ago it was a celebrated healing center in Greece. The infirm traveled great distances in the hope of being healed by the Greek god Ascelpius, son of Apollo.

While the theatre is the major draw of Epidaurus today, the Sanctuary was the star during the site's heyday, from the 4th to 2nd century BC.

Other Epidaurus

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Current physical conditions

Although the amphitheatre is in good condition, that's not the case with the other main Epidaurus structures including the sanctuary and stadium. They are in such a state of severe ruin that they appeal mainly to visitors who have a keen interest in Greek archaeology.

Epidaurus Museum

You may not find the Epidaurus Museum exciting because many of its exhibited sculpted works are copies, not the originals, which now reside in Athens, Greece.

Headwear

The summer sun in Greece can unmercifully beat down on your head - and the Epidaurus site has scant shade opportunities. Bring a hat.

Getting there

Epidaurus is a 2.5 hour drive from Athens, making it a popular daytrip from the Greek capital. Most tourists add Mycenea (a Hillman Wonders bronze medal winner) to their itinerary.

  

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