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Aspendos Theater
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Landmark
The ancient theater of Aspendos, located near Antalya, is widely considered the best-preserved Roman theater in the world. Built during the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius around 155 AD by the architect Zenon, it was funded as a gift to the city by two wealthy brothers. The theater is renowned for its extraordinary acoustics and its nearly complete stage building (scenae frons), which was originally two stories high and adorned with marble columns and statues. The semicircular auditorium could accommodate approximately 15,000 to 20,000 spectators and is built into the hillside of the city's acropolis. The survival of the structure is largely attributed to its reuse during the Seljuk period as a caravanserai and palace, which led to regular maintenance. Today, the theater remains functional and hosts the annual Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival.
- Location: Turkey
- Top sights: Theatre · Aspendos · Cistern
- Nearby: Boğazkent (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 19 | 24 | 27 | 28 | 24 | 19 | 13 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 182 | 99 | 70 | 56 | 43 | 17 | 6 | 4 | 28 | 72 | 98 | 176 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Aspendos Theater is a freestanding structure that can be visited both outside and inside. The seating area and stage wall are accessible, and the theater is still used for performances today.
Typical hours
The theater is typically open daily during daylight hours, same as the wider archaeological site. On performance days, hours may differ and access can be restricted.
Photography
Photography is allowed inside the theater, but avoid flash during performances. For private non-flash shots, there are usually no restrictions.
Time needed
A stand-alone visit to the theater takes about 30 to 45 minutes. If you are interested in the acoustics and architecture, comfortably allow one hour.
Combine with
Combine the theater visit with exploring the rest of ancient Aspendos, including the aqueduct. The nearby town of Side, with its own theater and harbor, makes a great day trip.
Getting there
The theater is located within the Aspendos archaeological park and is reached via the same entrance. Parking is right in front of the main gate, from where it's a five-minute walk to the theater.
Insider tip
Sit on the upper tiers and test the famous acoustics - a whisper can be heard from the stage. Arrive early to experience the theater without crowds, ideally at opening time.
Geography
Facts
- The theater was completed around 155 AD under the direction of the architect Zenon.
- The seating capacity of the auditorium is estimated between 15,000 and 20,000 people.
- The stage building spans nearly 100 meters in width and is about 25 meters high.
- In the 13th century, the Seljuks renovated the structure to serve as a summer palace.
- The theater features a gallery of 59 arches at the very top of the seating area.
- Aspendos was the first city in Asia Minor to mint silver coins, as early as the 5th century BC.
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Sights in the town Aspendos Theater (5)
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Frequently asked questions
Is the theater still in use?
Yes, performances and concerts are regularly held there.
What is special about Aspendos?
It is considered one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 1 hour to explore the tiers and the stage.
Is a rental car necessary?
Yes, since it is a bit remote, a car or a tour is handy.
Are there shaded areas?
Hardly any, bring sun protection and water, especially in summer.
Aspendos Theater: where is it located?
Aspendos Theater is located in Turkey.
Aspendos Theater: what is there to see?
Highlights include Theatre, Aspendos, Cistern.
Aspendos Theater: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Aspendos Theater: why is it worth visiting?
The ancient theater of Aspendos, located near Antalya, is widely considered the best-preserved Roman theater in the world.
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