Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Situated next to the Theatre of Dionysus, at the foot of the Athenian Acropolis, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus was erected under the supervision of the Roman senator Herodes Atticus.

An imposing construction

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus was first built with walls sheathed in marble with a seating capacity of over 5,000 spectators. The benches were also made of white marble and had mosaic floors. The ancient Roman style venue had a beautiful cedar roof, which was probably the most surprising aspect of the concert hall, now non-existing.

The theatre had a 35-meter-wide semi-circular orchestra and the stage façade had various windows to place statues in them. Behind the front view of the venue is a beautiful view of Athens.

The Odeon remained in use until 267 AD, when the Herules invaded the city.

Present Day

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus has been the chosen venue for important events throughout history, including: the 1973 Miss Universe pageant, the performance of the prestigious Greek singer Nana Mouskouri in 1984 and her subsequent retirement in 2008. Today the theater continues to host various events.

At present the entrance to the theater is reserved for theatrical performances and musical shows, so it is not possible to enter just to visit it. The best place from which to contemplate its interior is from its upper part, in the Acropolis enclosure, since from below the views are much more reduced.

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus has been rebuilt, so it is in a state very similar to that enjoyed by the ancient Greeks, although with the notable difference that now has no roof.