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Acropolis

Theatre of Dionysus Tickets

Included with Acropolis tickets

Timings

RECOMMENDED DURATION

3 hours

Theatre of Dionysus Acropolis Athens

Theatre of Dionysus | The birthplace of drama in the Acropolis of Athens

The Theatre of Dionysus, located on the southern slope of the Acropolis of Athens, is a part of the ancient sanctuary dedicated to Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and festivity. Once the stage for legendary playwrights like Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes, this ancient structure is now a significant symbol of the artistic and cultural achievements of Classical Greece.

Where is it located?

The Theatre of Dionysus sits at the southern base of the Acropolis, blending seamlessly with the natural rock formations of the hill. It is part of the Acropolis archaeological site, and visitors can easily find it just a short walk from the Acropolis Museum.

How to access the Theatre of Dionysus?

Access to the Theatre of Dionysus is included in all Acropolis tickets. Simply follow the southern entrance of the Acropolis, and you’ll find yourself stepping into the birthplace of Western theater.

Theatre of Dionysus in a nutshell

Theatre of Dionysus, Acropolis, Athens, Greece

Built in: 6th century BC
Purpose: The Theatre of Dionysus served as the main venue for theatrical performances and religious festivals in ancient Athens.
Capacity: It could seat 17,000 spectators, making it one of the largest theatres of its time.
Current use: It is now a historical site, with ruins of its seating, stage area, and inscriptions still visible.
Unique facts:

  • The Theatre of Dionysus is the world's first known theatre, laying the groundwork for modern theatrical architecture.
  • The City Dionysia, Athens’ most prestigious drama festival, was held here annually, with playwrights competing for the highest honor in theatre.
  • The works premiered at the Theatre of Dionysus introduced tragedy, comedy, and satire to the world—genres that still dominate theatre and film today.
Plan your visit to the Acropolis of Athens

What to see inside the Theatre of Dionysus, Athens?

The Orchestra: The performance circle

At the center of the theater, you’ll find the circular orchestra, where actors and chorus members used to perform. In its heyday, this space echoed with dramatic monologues, lyrical odes, and powerful dialogues.

The Prohedria: The best seats in the house

The front row marble seats, known as the Prohedria, were reserved for priests, magistrates, and other distinguished members of society. The most striking among them is the seat of the High Priest of Dionysus, featuring intricate carvings and inscriptions.

The Altar of Dionysus: A sacred centerpiece

At the center of the theatre, you’ll find the remains of the Thymele, an altar dedicated to Dionysus. In ancient times, sacrifices were made here before performances, marking the sacred connection between theatre and religious devotion.

The Skene: The stage backdrop

Behind the orchestra, the remains of the skene (stage house) can be seen. In ancient times, it served as a backdrop for performances, providing space for prop storage and costume changes.

The audience stands: A space for 17,000 spectators

You can see the remains of the vast tiered seating area, which once accommodated thousands of spectators. This is where Athenians gathered to witness plays that defined classical literature.

Architectural highlights of the Dionysus Theater

Theater of Dionysus ruins in Athens, Greece, showcasing ancient stone seating and stage area.
  • The Theatre of Dionysus was built into the natural hollow of the Acropolis’ southern slope, maximizing acoustics so that even those seated in the last rows could hear performances clearly. 
  • The earliest form of the theatre was a wooden structure built in the 6th century BC. By the 4th century BC, under the rule of Lycurgus, it was transformed into a stone and marble theatre capable of seating 17,000 people. This made it one of the largest theatres of the ancient world.
  • The Dionysus Theater at Acropolis set the architectural standard for amphitheaters worldwide with its semi-circular seating arrangement allowing for excellent acoustics.
South slope of the Acropolis of Athens

Frequently asked questions about the Theatre of Dionysus

Yes, the Theatre of Dionysus is included in all Acropolis tickets, so no separate entry fee is required.