A theatre with a uniquely striking architectural form
A theatre with a uniquely striking architectural form
One of Greece's oldest and most singular surviving ancient theatres can be found within the archaeological site of Thorikos, near Lavrio. Its location, on a hillside with unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea and the Lavreotiki mining landscape, uniquely connects the theatre with the region's natural and economic environment.
Dating back to the 6th century BC, the theatre is considered one of the oldest in Attica. Its orchestra, an oblong with rounded corners facing the auditorium, distinguishes it within the history of theatrical architecture. The seats are carved directly into the natural rock, following the slope of the hill.
Visiting the site allows one to appreciate how ancient theatrical architecture developed through experimentation, culminating in the strict rules of the classical period. Furthermore, its proximity to the ancient mines and the ancient settlement of Thoricus highlights the close relationship between culture, labour, and the democratic organisation of ancient Attica.
Stand at the orchestra's centre to appreciate the site's acoustics and its immediate connection to the surrounding landscape. This visit is ideally paired with exploring Lavrio's industrial heritage.
One of Greece's oldest and most singular surviving ancient theatres can be found within the archaeological site of Thorikos, near Lavrio. Its location, on a hillside with unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea and the Lavreotiki mining landscape, uniquely connects the theatre with the region's natural and economic environment.
Dating back to the 6th century BC, the theatre is considered one of the oldest in Attica. Its orchestra, an oblong with rounded corners facing the auditorium, distinguishes it within the history of theatrical architecture. The seats are carved directly into the natural rock, following the slope of the hill.
Visiting the site allows one to appreciate how ancient theatrical architecture developed through experimentation, culminating in the strict rules of the classical period. Furthermore, its proximity to the ancient mines and the ancient settlement of Thoricus highlights the close relationship between culture, labour, and the democratic organisation of ancient Attica.
Stand at the orchestra's centre to appreciate the site's acoustics and its immediate connection to the surrounding landscape. This visit is ideally paired with exploring Lavrio's industrial heritage.
