Description of the attraction
On the southern slope of the Acropolis is the ancient stone theater known as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus (Herodion). It was built in 161 AD. by the Athenian magnate Herod Atticus in honor of his late wife Regilla.
It was originally an amphitheater with a steep slope and a three-story stone front wall, the roof was made of expensive Lebanese cedar wood. The structure is very well preserved to this day, with the exception of statues in niches and multi-colored marble cladding. The odeon was used for music concerts and held 5,000 spectators. In 1950, the theater was reconstructed; white Pentelikon marble was used for facing. Odeon amazes with its excellent acoustics even today.
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is the site of the Athens Festival, which takes place annually from May to October. A huge number of famous Greek and world celebrities have performed on this stage, such as Maria Callas, Maurice Bejart, Mikis Theodorakis, Placido Domingo, Bolshoi Ballet, Manos Hadzidakis, Yorgos Dalaras, Marinella and many other famous artists and organizations. In 1973, the Miss Universe competition was held here. In May 1996, Sting performed on this stage with his new album, "Mercury Falling". And in 2000, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus hosted the legendary Elton John. In September 2010, renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli gave a charity concert here to raise funds for cancer research. The concert was attended by the incumbent Prime Minister Georgios Papandreou and the Athens Archbishop Jerome II.
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is not only a historical monument, but also the main acting stage of Athens. Therefore, you can get on it only during concerts and performances by purchasing a ticket. But you can also admire the beautiful ancient structure from the top of the Acropolis.
