For centuries, the theatre has stood as a symbol of culture, storytelling, and artistic expression. From open-air amphitheatres of ancient civilisations to ornate indoor playhouses of the Renaissance, these venues have played host to emperors, commoners, and legends of the stage alike. Many of them still echo with the footsteps of performers and the applause of audiences, offering a rare glimpse into the past.
Below is a curated journey through ten of the world’s oldest and most historic theatres – remarkable places that continue to inspire awe through their architecture, heritage, and enduring purpose.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus – Athens, Greece
Constructed in 161 AD by the wealthy Roman consul Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife, this theatre sits majestically on the southwest slope of the Acropolis. Originally featuring a wooden roof and three storeys, it hosted musical performances and could accommodate around 5,000 spectators.
Today, the Odeon has been partially restored and is once again used for concerts and theatrical performances, particularly during the annual Athens Festival.
Epidaurus Theatre – Epidaurus, Greece
Built in the 4th century BC, the Epidaurus Theatre is one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world and a masterpiece of Greek architecture. With 55 rows of limestone seats and a capacity of 14,000 to 20,000 people, it is renowned for its extraordinary acoustics – even a whisper on stage can be heard clearly from the upper tiers.
Originally part of a sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine, it continues to host performances as part of the Epidaurus Festival.
Roman Theatre – Orange, France
This Roman theatre, constructed in the 1st century AD, was closed for centuries due to the Christian Church’s disapproval of theatrical performances. It was restored in the 19th century and is now one of the finest examples of Roman theatre architecture in Europe.
The Théâtre Antique d’Orange now hosts prestigious opera festivals and offers a free audio guide that helps visitors explore Roman life and theatre.
Theatre of Dionysus – Athens, Greece
Regarded as the cradle of Greek drama, the Theatre of Dionysus is one of the oldest theatres in the world. It dates back to the 6th century BC and was the venue for the works of famed playwrights like Sophocles, Aeschylus, and Euripides.
Though much of its original structure has been lost, restoration efforts are ongoing to preserve what remains of this iconic site on the slopes of the Acropolis.
Roman Theatre – Mérida, Spain
Located in the ancient city of Emerita Augusta, the Roman Theatre of Mérida was inaugurated in 16 BC and is considered one of the most important Roman landmarks in the Iberian Peninsula. It features a classic Roman design with tiered seating divided by class and could accommodate around 5,500 spectators.
The theatre has undergone several restorations and is still in use today for performances and cultural events.
Greek Theatre – Taormina, Sicily, Italy
Situated on the eastern coast of Sicily, the Greek Theatre of Taormina offers stunning views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, it was later expanded by the Romans.
Today, it is one of the largest ancient theatres still in use and serves as a venue for concerts, film festivals, and theatrical performances.
Roman Theatre – Amman, Jordan
Built into a hillside in the 2nd century AD, the Roman Theatre in Amman could seat up to 6,000 spectators. Its orientation is considered exceptional, allowing the audience to enjoy performances without being affected by direct sunlight.
Although now largely in ruins, the theatre remains a central historical attraction in Amman. In the mid-20th century, it also became a temporary refuge for displaced Palestinians.
Theatre – Delphi, Greece
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, this ancient theatre was built in the 4th century BC within the sacred precinct of Apollo. With a seating capacity of around 5,000, it offered not only performances but breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.
Although only ruins remain today, its location continues to inspire awe among visitors to the archaeological site of Delphi.
Roman Amphitheatre – Bosra, Syria
Bosra, once a key city in the Roman province of Arabia, is home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. Built in the 2nd century AD, it could hold up to 15,000 spectators and was protected by imposing black basalt walls, giving it a fortress-like appearance.
Thanks to its durability, the theatre still hosts concerts and cultural events despite the region’s turbulent history.
Side Theatre – Side, Turkey
Located among the ruins of the ancient city of Side, this Roman theatre dates back to the 2nd century AD and once seated up to 20,000 spectators. It was the cultural heart of a thriving trading hub known for its olive oil and slave markets.
Over time, the theatre served various roles – from a place of worship to an arena for gladiatorial combat. Today, Side is a popular coastal resort, and its theatre remains a striking reminder of the city’s ancient past.
Final Thoughts
These ancient theatres are not only architectural marvels but also timeless vessels of human creativity and expression. From the whispers of Greek tragedies to the roar of Roman crowds, each one holds echoes of the performances and people who shaped them.
Have you visited any of these historic theatres, or are they now on your travel wishlist? Let us know your thoughts or share your experiences in the comments below – and don’t forget to explore more fascinating places and stories across our travel and culture features.