Theater (Ephesus)

The theater of Ephesus, built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, then heavily Romanized from 40 AD and enlarged under the reign of Nero, is the best preserved monument of the archaeological site of Ephesus and the largest building of its type in Asia Minor.

Its ruins are part of the archaeological site of Ephesus, listed as a World Heritage Site.

History

The theater was cut into the western slope of Mount Prion, facing the Arcadian road that linked the harbor to the city center. The Greeks built the first theater on the site around 250 BC. Then, during the Roman domination, around 40 AD, the theater was renovated and its capacity was increased to 25,000 spectators. Under the reign of Emperor Nero (54-68), an additional tier was constructed, further enlarged by a third in the middle of the 2nd century.

About a hundred years later, around 140-144, the first rows of seats were demolished to increase the stage area. In the 3rd century a three‑tier stage wall was added, decorated with reliefs, columns, niches, windows and statues. From there, five doors opened onto the stage, the central one wider than the others. The cavea was divided into three sections of 66 rows by two horizontal aisles (diazomata). The height of the theater is 18 meters. In addition to theatrical performances in the traditional sense, the theater was the venue for social, religious and political events, and even gladiatorial combats.

In the 2nd century, spectators were protected from the weather by a velum. The devastating earthquakes between 359 and 366 caused considerable damage to the building, especially to the upper wing. In the time of the Byzantine emperor Flavius Arcadius (395-408), renovations were carried out in the theater, but the upper part was not restored: the proconsul Messalinus was in charge of the restoration works. In the 8th century, the building became an integral part of the defense system of Ephesus.

Archaeology

The first archaeological excavations began on the site before the First World War. In the 1970s and 1980s, the vaults were excavated and restored. Renovation work resumed at the beginning of the 21st century.

Modern concerts and performances

Concerts are organized at the theater. Among others, Elton John, Sting and Diana Ross have performed there.