13 Ancient Theaters That Still Host Performances Today

There is something magical about sitting in a centuries-old theater, knowing you’re enjoying a performance where audiences cheered, laughed, and applauded before the invention of modern technology. For proof of just how timeless the human love for art and storytelling is, these historic venues exist. These spaces remind us that some traditions are just too good to let go, from grand open-air amphitheaters to more intimate stone stages.

Their test of time has been a good one: Many didn’t just survive, they have grown stronger and more vibrant cultural hubs. Visitors get the opportunity to take in performances in the presence of breathtaking architecture and history. Here are 13 ancient theaters that are still in use today.

Epidaurus Theater, Greece

The Epidaurus Theater is often called an acoustic masterpiece in the Peloponnesian hills. Originally, it was used to perform in honor of the god of healing, Asclepius, this venue was built in the 4th century BCE. With 55 semi-circular rows of limestone seats, it has been designed so that sound travels perfectly, and whispers can be heard even in the last row. Today, the theater hosts the annual Epidaurus Festival with performers and audiences from all over the world.

Theater of Dionysus, Athens

The Theater of Dionysus was built in the 6th century BCE and sits at the foot of the Acropolis in Athens. It is believed to have been built around the time of the first works to grace the stages of playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides. While some of the theater has fallen apart, some restoration work has allowed modern performances to take place.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Athens

One of Athens’ jewels is this stone theater, built in 161 AD by the wealthy Roman Herodes Atticus. Its semi-circular arrangement seating and its stony facade make it good for dramatic light effects during evening performances. Music, theater and dance productions breathe life into this space each summer during the Athens and Epidaurus Festival.

The Roman Theater of Orange, France

This theater in southeastern France dates back to the 1st century AD and is famous for its enormous stage wall, one of the few walls that survive from the Roman world. With Brilliant acoustics and a grand setting, it is a popular venue for the annual Chorégies d’Orange, an opera festival that draws international stars.

Aspendos Theater, Turkey

The Aspendos Theater in modern Antalya, Turkey, is a great example of Roman engineering. Its well-preserved seating and stage area lend it well to being used for cultural events such as ballet and classical music concerts. Locals love to brag about how it used to hold over 15,000 spectators.

Arena of Verona, Italy

Verona’s fame is in part thanks to the story of Romeo and Juliet, but centuries ago it housed a Roman amphitheater. The Arena of Verona, built in the 1st century AD, is world famous for its annual opera festival. It is nothing short of magical, especially with the open-top view and the feeling of sitting under the stars listening to Puccini or Verdi.

Teatro Romano, Spain

The ancient theater in Mérida, Spain, built around 15 BCE, is one of the components of an archaeological complex declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Mérida Classical Theatre Festival, held every summer, attracts crowds to see plays and concerts in front of ancient Roman columns.

Theater at Delphi, Greece

The Theater at Delphi is an ancient Greek theater located near the Sanctuary of Apollo with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains. Originally music competitions were a part of the Pythian Games celebrated at the Theater built in the 4th century BCE. Performances today are rare, but the space’s rich history is occasionally rekindled by special events.

Pompeii’s Teatro Grande, Italy

Although Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD when it buried Pompeii, its Teatro Grande remains, and the theater still tells the story. The Pompeii Theatrical Festival is held in this open air theater which features tiered seating and views of nearby ruins.

Bosra Roman Theater, Syria

Bosra’s theater is a 2nd-century AD structure that has survived time and turmoil in stunning condition. It holds a vast stage area (which could hold 15,000 spectators) and is built from black basalt stone. Today it is the site of cultural events and a reminder of the region’s rich artistic heritage.

Theater of Taormina, Sicily

Lavish Greco-Roman theater, Theater of Taormina, dangles on a hillside with views of Mount Etna enchanting visitors for centuries. The Greeks originally built it, but the Romans later expanded it. Now it is a popular concert and film screening venue during the Taormina Film Festival,

Jerash South Theater, Jordan

A 2nd century AD theater in the city of Jerash, famous for its Roman ruins, still buzzes with life. The Jerash South Theater has 3,000 seats, and folk music and dance reverberate off its ancient stones every year during the city’s culture festival.

The Roman Theater of Amman, Jordan

This 2nd-century AD theater, carved into a hillside in the heart of Jordan’s capital, can seat 6,000 people. Sections have been restored and turned into a concert hall and play venue with a striking mix of old and new. It’s like living in a history book here.

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