The Odeon of Herodes Atticus (also called Herodeion or Herodion) is a stone theatre structure located on the southwest slope of the Acropolis of Athens. The building was completed in 161 AD and then renovated in 1950.
It was built in 161 AD by the Athenian magnate Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife, Aspasia Annia Regilla. It was originally a steep-sloped theater with a three-story stone front wall and a wooden roof made of expensive cedar of Lebanon timber. It was used as a venue for music concerts with a capacity of 5,000. It lasted intact until it was destroyed and left in ruins by the Heruli in 267 AD.
Visitor Info
Rating
★ 4.6 3,900 reviews
Visit Time
~20 min
Best Time
Sunset or performance nights
Insider Tips
- · The venue is most impressive when it is in use or viewed from above
- · If you have an evening show ticket, build your schedule around it
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who built it and why? ▾
Herodes Atticus, a wealthy Roman-Greek patron, built it around 161 AD as a memorial to his wife Aspasia Regilla; it was originally roofed with cedar.
Can tourists visit inside? ▾
Only during performances of the Athens & Epidaurus Festival (June–September); at other times the interior is closed to visitors but visible from outside.
How good are the acoustics? ▾
Exceptional — the horseshoe shape and stone seating create near-perfect natural acoustics, which is why it remains an active performance venue nearly 2,000 years after construction.
How many people does it seat? ▾
The restored theatre seats approximately 5,000 spectators on its marble and modern seating tiers.
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Odeon of Herodes Atticus — offline map & tips