Visit the Theatre of Dionysus in Athens
In the heart of Athens, on the southern slopes of the Acropolis, stands the Theatre of Dionysus, an exceptional monument that bears witness to the birth of Western theatre. Built in the 6th century BC, this ancient amphitheatre could hold up to 17,000 spectators who came to see performances by the greatest Greek playwrights. Sophocles, Aeschylus, Euripides and Aristophanes all performed their masterpieces here during the famous Great Dionysia. Today, this fascinating archaeological site invites you to follow in the footsteps of ancient Greek civilisation and discover the birthplace of tragedy and comedy as we know it.
See also the Athens guide :
- Top 10 things to do in Athens
- The 10 most beautiful beaches around Athens
- Top 12 culinary specialities in Athens
- Top 7 best hotels in Athens
- Immerse yourself in the Acropolis of Athens: advice and practical information
History and origins of the Theatre of Dionysus
The Theatre of Dionysus is much more than just an ancient monument: it is the cradle of Western dramatic art. Dedicated to Dionysus, the god of wine, fertility and theatre, this sacred site was the birthplace of the first tragedies and comedies to shape European culture. Originally built of wood in the 6th century BC, it was rebuilt in stone in the 4th century BC, reflecting the growing importance of theatre in Athenian society.
The beginnings of Greek theatre
The history of the Theatre of Dionysus begins with the first festivals in honour of Dionysus. These religious celebrations, known as the Great Dionysias, took place every year in spring and lasted several days. It was during these festivities that the first theatrical performances saw the light of day, gradually transforming religious rituals into genuine dramatic representations. The original wooden structure could already accommodate thousands of spectators, proof of the popular enthusiasm for these cultural events.
Stone reconstruction
In the 4th century BC, at the instigation of the strategist Lycurgus, the theatre was entirely rebuilt in pentelic marble, the noble stone used for the Parthenon. This transformation considerably increased the capacity of the theatre, which now seats almost 17,000. The tiers of seats were carved directly into the rock of the southern slope of the Acropolis, providing remarkable acoustics that enabled every spectator to hear the actors clearly. This architectural feat bears witness to the genius of the Greek builders and the importance attached to theatre in the city.
The golden age of Athenian theatre
The 5th century BC marked the apogee of the Theatre of Dionysus. It was on this mythical stage that the immortal tragedies of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides and the comedies of Aristophanes were created. These playwrights took part in competitions organised during the Great Dionysias, and their plays explored universal themes: justice, power, love and human destiny. Athenian audiences, made up of free citizens as well as slaves and women at certain performances, were passionate about these shows, which combined art, religion and philosophical questioning.
Download the audio tour to discover Athens on foot and on your own
To make the most of your visit to the Theatre of Dionysus and all the treasures of Athens, let yourself be guided by the Navaway audio tour. This comprehensive tour takes you to 29 of the Greek capital’s major landmarks, including the majestic Theatre of Dionysus. Thanks to interactive navigation and informative historical commentary, you can explore Athens at your own pace, in complete autonomy, while benefiting from fascinating anecdotes and detailed explanations of each site.
Architecture and outstanding features of the theatre
The architecture of the Theatre of Dionysus is a perfect illustration of the genius of ancient Greek builders. Set against the hill of the Acropolis, the theatre naturally exploits the slope to create a hemicycle structure that optimises visibility and acoustics. This ingenious design served as a model for all the Greek and Roman theatres that followed, making the Theatre of Dionysus the prototype of Western theatrical architecture.
The ancient bleachers
The tiers of the Theatre of Dionysus, called koilon in ancient Greek, formed a vast semicircular amphitheatre with 78 rows of seats. The first and most prestigious rows were reserved for the city’s dignitaries, priests and magistrates. The most famous of these is that of the priest of Dionysus, located in the centre of the first row. These seats of honour bear witness to the Athenian social hierarchy and the religious and political importance of the theatre.
The circular orchestra
At the centre of the theatre is theorchestra, a circular space around 20 metres in diameter that was the heart of the theatrical performance. It was here that the chorus, a fundamental element of Greek theatre, sang, danced and commented on the dramatic action. Originally made of clay, the orchestra was later paved with marble. In the centre stood thealtar of Dionysus(thymélé), a reminder of the theatre’s religious origins. This layout allowed for excellent interaction between the actors, chorus and audience, creating a unique immersive theatrical experience.
The stage and stage building
The skénè, or stage building, was located behind the orchestra and served as a set, a backstage area and a sound box to amplify the actors’ voices. Initially a simple structure, it was gradually enhanced with columns and architectural decorations. It allowed actors to change costumes and masks between scenes, and its three doors offered different ways in and out. The stage innovations developed at the Theatre of Dionysus, such as the use of machinery to make the gods appear(deus ex machina), revolutionised dramatic art.
Bas-reliefs and sculptures
The Theatre of Dionysus was richly decorated with sculptures and bas-reliefs depicting mythological scenes linked to Dionysus. Among the most remarkable elements are the sculpted friezes illustrating the life of the god and his companions, the satyrs and the maenads. Some of these works of art have been transferred to the Acropolis Museum for preservation, but several reliefs can still be seen on site. These decorations are a reminder that the theatre was not just a place for performances, but also a sacred space dedicated to the cult of Dionysus.
Opening times and prices for visiting the Theatre of Dionysus
Visit the Theatre of Dionysus as part of your visit to the Acropolis archaeological site. The theatre is located on the southern slope of the sacred hill and is accessible via the southern entrance to the site (Mitseon 25, Athina 117 42, Greece, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 6,230 reviews).
Opening hours
The Théâtre de Dionysos is open every day from 8am to 6pm. During the high tourist season (April to October), opening times may be extended to 7pm. During the winter season (November to March), the site closes earlier, usually around 5pm. It is advisable to check the exact opening times before your visit, especially on Greek public holidays when changes may occur.
Admission prices
Admission to the Theatre of Dionysus is included in the ticket for the Acropolis. The full price is 20 euros in low season and 30 euros in high season (April to October). A combined ticket at 30 euros allows you to visit the Acropolis as well as six other major archaeological sites in Athens, including the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Library. The pass is valid for five consecutive days and is an excellent option for visitors wishing to explore ancient Athens in depth.
Discounts and freebies
Reduced rates apply to students from the European Union (with a valid student card), over-65s who are EU nationals, and young people aged between 6 and 25. Admission is free for children under 6, disabled visitors and their carers, and for all visitors on certain days of the year (6 March, 18 April, 18 May, the last weekend in September, 28 October and the first Sunday of each month from November to March).
To make the most of your visit to Athens and make sure you don’t miss any of the major sites, consider following the Navaway itinerary, which guides you through the Greek capital’s most beautiful monuments.
How to get to the Théâtre de Dionysos
The Theatre of Dionysus is centrally located in Athens, at the foot of the southern slopes of the Acropolis, making it easily accessible by various means of transport.
1. By metro
The most convenient way to reach the theatre is by metro. Akropoli station (line 2, red line) is about 5 minutes’ walk from the site. When you leave the station, follow the signs to the Acropolis and head for the south entrance. You can also get off at Monastiraki station (lines 1 and 3) or Thissio station (line 1), but the walk will take a little longer (10-15 minutes).
2. On foot from the historic centre
If you are staying in the Plaka or Monastiraki districts, you can easily reach the Theatre of Dionysus on foot. From Syntagma Square, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk through the picturesque lanes of Athens. The Navaway audio tour takes you through these historic districts on your way to the Acropolis and the theatre.
3. By bus
Several bus routes serve the Acropolis: routes 230, 040 and A2 stop close to the archaeological site. The nearest stop is “Makrigianni”, just a few minutes’ walk from the southern entrance to the Acropolis.
4. By taxi or VTC
Athenian taxis are relatively affordable. Ask the driver to drop you off on rue Dionysiou Areopagitou, the main pedestrian thoroughfare running along the southern side of the Acropolis. The entrance to the site is just a short walk away.
The cultural role of theatre in ancient Athens
The Theatre of Dionysus was more than just a place of entertainment: it occupied a central place in the civic, religious and cultural life of Athens. Understanding its role gives us a better grasp of the importance of theatre in ancient Greek society.
The Great Dionysias: a religious and civic festival
Every spring, Athens celebrated the Great Dionysia, a festival lasting several days in honour of Dionysus. These festivities began with a solemn procession carrying the statue of the god from the temple to the theatre, followed by sacrifices and libations. For three days, dramatic competitions were held between the best writers of tragedies and comedies. Three tragedians each presented a tetralogy (three tragedies and a satyr drama), while five comic poets competed with one comedy each. These competitions were judged by a jury of citizens, and the winners received a wreath of ivy, the symbol of Dionysus.
A space for education and debate
Athenian theatre played a fundamental educational role. By drawing on myths and legends, tragedies raised universal questions about justice, power, morality and destiny. They enabled citizens to reflect collectively on the major issues of their time. Comedies, on the other hand, criticised political figures and the shortcomings of Athenian society with humour, acting as a form of social satire. The theatre was thus a place of democratic debate where freedom of speech, an essential feature of Athenian democracy, was expressed.
Theatre accessibility
Unlike other cultural activities reserved for the elite, the theatre was accessible to all Athenian citizens, regardless of wealth. Pericles even introduced the theorikon, an allowance enabling the most modest citizens to buy their tickets. This democratisation of culture testifies to the importance attached to the theatre as a social cement and a tool for collective education.
The great playwrights of the Theatre of Dionysus
The Theatre of Dionysus has played host to the greatest geniuses of Greek dramatic literature. These authors revolutionised the art of theatre, and their works continue to be performed and studied the world over.
Aeschylus, the father of tragedy
Aeschylus (c. 525-456 BC) is considered to be the creator of Greek tragedy as we know it. It was he who introduced the second actor, enabling dialogue and dramatic conflict on stage. His major works, such as The Persians and The Oresteia (a trilogy comprising Agamemnon, The Choéphores and The Eumenides), explore the themes of fate, divine justice and human responsibility. His grandiose style and philosophical depth laid the foundations of tragic theatre.
Sophocles and the humanisation of the hero
Sophocles (c. 496-406 BC) perfected the form of tragedy by introducing the third actor and reducing the importance of the chorus in favour of the dramatic action. His most famous plays, Oedipus Rex, Antigone and Electra, feature heroes faced with insurmountable moral dilemmas. Sophocles excelled in the psychological portrayal of his characters, making their suffering profoundly human and universal. He won numerous victories at the Great Dionysia, demonstrating his popularity with the Athenian public.
Euripides, the renovator
Euripides (c. 480-406 BC) shook up the conventions of tragedy by giving pride of place to female characters and challenging traditional values. His works, such as Medea, The Trojan Women and The Bacchae, are marked by a psychological realism and social criticism that were unusual for the time. Less appreciated during his lifetime than his predecessors, Euripides became the most widely performed tragic playwright after his death, profoundly influencing later theatre.
Aristophanes and political comedy
Aristophanes (c. 445-386 BC) dominated the ancient comedy genre. His plays, such as The Clouds, The Wasps, Lysistrata and The Frogs, criticised the politicians, philosophers (notably Socrates) and morals of his time with verve and humour. His comedies were a blend of farce, political satire and poetic fantasy, providing a jubilant counterpoint to the tragedies. They are also a valuable historical source on daily life and political debates in 5th-century Athens.
The other monuments on the south side of the Acropolis
A visit to the Theatre of Dionysus can be combined with a tour of other remarkable monuments on the southern slopes of the Acropolis, forming a coherent archaeological whole.
1. The Sanctuary of Dionysus
Adjacent to the theatre is the Sanctuary of Dionysus Eleutherus, a place of worship dedicated to the god. Here you can see the remains of a small temple, as well as the bases of votive statues offered in honour of Dionysus. This sanctuary is a reminder of the religious origins of the theatre and the importance of the Dionysian cult in the Athenian city.
2. The Odeon of Herod Atticus
Built in 161 AD by the wealthy patron Herod Atticus in memory of his wife, this odeon is remarkably well preserved. Unlike the Theatre of Dionysus, it had a cedar roof. Restored in the 1950s, it now hosts concerts and performances during the Athens and Epidaurus Festivals, perpetuating the ancient theatrical tradition. With a capacity of 5,000, it is the perfect place to enjoy shows in an exceptional historical setting.
3. Asclepieion
Situated between the two theatres, the Sanctuary of Asclepius, the god of medicine, housed a health centre where the sick came to seek healing. Founded in the 5th century BC, it featured a sacred spring and porticoes where patients slept in the hope of receiving a revealing dream from Asclepius indicating the treatment to follow. This sanctuary bears witness to the importance of medicine and therapeutic practices in ancient Athens.
4. The Stoa of Eumenes
This long covered colonnade, built in the 2nd century BC by the Pergamon king Eumenes II, linked the Odeon of Herod Atticus to the Theatre of Dionysus. It served as a promenade where spectators could take shelter from the rain and chat before and after the performances. Its foundations and a few columns are still visible today, bearing witness to the sophisticated layout of this cultural space.
With the Navaway audioguide, you can discover all these monuments in a logical order, with detailed explanations of their history and architecture.
Practical tips for your visit
To make the most of your visit to the Theatre of Dionysus and the site of the Acropolis, there are a few recommendations.
1. Best time to visit
The site is open all year round, but the best times to visit are in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the temperatures are pleasant and the crowds are smaller. In summer, it’s best to visit early in the morning (opening at 8am) or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. In winter, the days are shorter but the site is much quieter.
2. Recommended equipment
Bring comfortable, non-slip shoes, as the ground is uneven and the steps can be slippery. A hat, sun cream and water are essential, especially in summer, as the site offers little shade. Binoculars can be useful for observing the details of the sculptures and reliefs high up.
3. Length of visit
Allow around 30 to 45 minutes to visit the Theatre of Dionysus on its own, and 2 to 3 hours to explore the whole of the south side of the Acropolis, including the Odeon of Herod Atticus and the Asclepieion. If you also wish to climb up to the Parthenon, allow a full half-day.
4. Online booking
We strongly advise you to buy your tickets online from the official website of the Greek Ministry of Culture to avoid long queues, particularly in high season. Electronic tickets give you direct access to the site. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour, which includes ticket-free access and commentary by a professional guide.
5. Accessibility
The site is difficult to access for people with reduced mobility due to the uneven terrain and numerous steps. However, a lift provides access to the top of the Acropolis from the west entrance. Part of the Theatre of Dionysus remains accessible, albeit on a limited scale.
For the ultimate Athens sightseeing experience, follow the complete Navaway itinerary, which will guide you through all the major sites of the Greek capital.
Restorations and archaeological discoveries
The Theatre of Dionysus has undergone a number of transformations over the course of its history, and archaeological excavations have enabled us to gain a better understanding of its evolution.
The 19th century digs
The first systematic excavations were carried out in 1862 by the German archaeologist Johann Strack. This work uncovered the extent of the theatre and revealed numerous architectural and sculptural features. The finds included reliefs depicting Dionysian scenes, honorific inscriptions and fragments of statues. These excavations marked the beginning of scientific interest in the site.
Roman modifications
In Roman times, the theatre was adapted to host gladiatorial shows and animal fights, popular practices in the Roman Empire. A protective wall was built around the orchestra to protect spectators during these violent shows. During his visit to Greece in 61 AD, the Emperor Nero had a stage added, decorated with marble mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Dionysus, fragments of which are still visible.
Modern restorations
In the 20th century, consolidation and restoration work was undertaken to preserve the site. Archaeologist Wilhelm Dörpfeld led major excavation campaigns at the end of the 19th century, clarifying the chronology of the monument. More recently, occasional restorations have been carried out to stabilise the terraces and protect the sculpted elements from erosion. The site is subject to ongoing archaeological monitoring to ensure its long-term conservation.
Visiting the Theatre of Dionysus with children
The Theatre of Dionysus can be an exciting visit for children, provided it is adapted to their age and interests.
Telling the story of theatre
Children are often fascinated by stories from Greek mythology. Before the visit, tell them about the adventures of Dionysus, the exploits of tragic heroes such as Oedipus or Antigone, or the comic stories of Aristophanes. While they’re there, encourage them to imagine the grandiose performances that took place in this theatre over 2,000 years ago. The Navaway audioguide offers tailored content to capture the attention of young visitors.
Fun activities
Ask your children to climb up into the tiers and test the theatre’s exceptional acoustics by whispering from the orchestra. Organise a little game where they have to find the marble thrones of the dignitaries in the front row. Have them act out a short scene like ancient actors, using imaginary masks. These activities make the visit interactive and memorable.
Planning breaks
Visiting the archaeological site can be tiring for young children. Allow regular breaks, snacks and water. The garden adjoining the theatre offers a few shady areas in which to rest. Don’t hesitate to cut the visit short if the children show signs of tiredness, even if it means coming back another time.
In conclusion, the Theatre of Dionysus is much more than an ancient monument: it is the cradle of Western theatre, a place where the voices of history’s greatest playwrights still resonate. A visit here will help you understand the importance of the dramatic arts in ancient Greece and the lasting influence of this civilisation on our contemporary culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a theatre-lover or simply curious, a visit to the Theatre of Dionysus will plunge you into the fascinating atmosphere of classical Athens. And don’t hesitate to extend your exploration by following the complete Navaway itinerary, which will guide you through the treasures of Athens, a thousand-year-old capital where history and modernity meet in harmony.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to visit the Theatre of Dionysus?
A visit to the Theatre of Dionysus alone takes around 30 to 45 minutes. If you also wish to explore the whole of the south side of the Acropolis, including the Odeon of Herod Atticus and the Asclepieion, allow 2 to 3 hours. For a full visit including the Parthenon and the other monuments of the Acropolis, allow half a day.
Does the ticket for the Acropolis include access to the Theatre of Dionysus?
Yes, entry to the Theatre of Dionysus is included in the ticket for the Acropolis. The standard ticket costs 20 euros in low season and 30 euros in high season. A combined ticket for 30 euros also allows you to visit six other major archaeological sites in Athens.
Are there any shows on at the Théâtre de Dionysos today?
No, the Theatre of Dionysus no longer hosts regular performances due to its state of conservation and heritage value. However, the nearby Odeon of Herod Atticus hosts shows during the Athens and Epidaurus Festivals in the summer.
When is the best time to visit the Theatre of Dionysus?
The best periods are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the temperatures are pleasant and the crowds are smaller. In summer, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Is the site accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Accessibility is limited due to the uneven terrain and numerous steps. A lift provides access to the top of the Acropolis, but the Theatre of Dionysus, located on the hillside, is difficult to access for wheelchair users. Contact the site in advance to find out about any special arrangements.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
It is strongly recommended that you buy your tickets online, especially in high season, to avoid the queues, which can be very long. Electronic tickets give you direct access to the site without going through the ticket office.
200 audioguided tours for cities all around the world
Download
