t Visitors exploring the vast site of the ancient Greek amphitheatre
Built in the 5th century BC, this is one of the most important examples of ancient theatre architecture anywhere. For centuries the Greek Theatre was the centre of Syracusan life, and was a much more complex construction than today’s ruins might indicate.
t Visitors exploring the vast site of the ancient Greek amphitheatre
EXPERIENCE Syracuse, Val di Noto and the South
t Overview of the Greek Theatre at Syracuse
Originally designed by the Greek architect Damacopos, the Teatro Greco was enlarged in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC by Hieron II. From the 5th century BC onwards, the great Greek playwrights, including Aeschylus, wrote and staged their works in this magnificent setting. In 1520–31, Emperor Charles V had much of the stone transported to build the walls around Ortigia. The theatre is set within the Neapolis Archaeological Zone, which contains the ruins of several other impressive Greek and Roman structures, including the Altar of Hieron II, used for ritual sacrifices, and a 3rd-century Roman amphitheatre.
Archimedes was born in Syracuse and later died at the hands of the Romans during the sacking of 212 BC.
On 16 April 1914, the tradition of performing ancient Greek theatre was revived at Syracuse, and now a season of plays first performed here over 2,500 years ago is put on every year in May/June. The Istituto Nazionale del Dramma Antico (National Institute of Ancient Drama) was set up in 1925. The Scuola Professionale di Teatro Antico (Professional School of Ancient Theatre) joined as partners in 1983.