The magnificent theatre at Epidaurus is one of the finest surviving examples of classical theatre architecture in Europe. It is located on the northern side of the Argive peninsula in the north-eastern Peloponnese (approximately 50km from Athens and 30km from Corinth) and dates from the latter half of the fourth century BC.

During the opening years of the fourth century a significant sanctuary to Ascelepius, the Greek god of healing, rapidly sprang up in the small city-state of Epidaurus.

Who was Ascelepius?

Various buildings dedicated to worship and medical treatment were erected during the early-years of the fourth century BC, and the small city of Epidaurus soon developed a reputation as a renowned and important place of religious pilgrimage.

Amongst the first significant building projects to take place at Epidaurus was a doric temple dedicated to Ascelepius. Scholars believe that the renowned architect Theodotus designed this monument. Amongst its striking features were a range of porticoes that were set aside for the incubation and treatment of invalids by means of a process involving fumigation.

Despite Epidaurus' origins as a place of religious devotion, pilgrimage and healing, the small city-state also quickly gained a reputation for its second significant architectural monument: the magnificent theatre.

One of the finest surviving theatre structures from all antiquity, the theatre at Epidaurus is thought to have been constructed during the second major phase of the site’s development, towards the end of the fourth century BC.