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The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a beautifully preserved Roman-era amphitheater located on the south slope of the Acropolis of Athens. Built in 161 AD by the wealthy Greek senator Herodes Atticus, the Odeon was designed for musical and theatrical performances, with a seating capacity of up to 5,000 people. Today, it remains an important cultural attraction and a testament to the grandeur of ancient Greek and Roman architecture.
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus was built in memory of Herodes Atticus’ wife, Regilla, who died in 160 AD. Herodes was a wealthy and influential Greek senator who served as a consul in Rome and was known for his philanthropic activities. The Odeon was one of his many gifts to the city of Athens, and it quickly became a popular venue for musical and theatrical performances.
The Odeon’s original name was the “Odeon of Regilla,” but it was later renamed in honor of Herodes Atticus. The theater was in use for several centuries, but it was eventually abandoned and fell into disrepair. It was rediscovered in the early 20th century and has since been extensively restored.
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus was designed in the Roman style and features many elements typical of Roman-era amphitheaters. The theater is built into a natural slope, and the semi-circular orchestra is surrounded by tiered seating. The stage is raised and framed by a tall back wall with niches for statues.
The Odeon’s facade is made of white marble and features an impressive archway at the entrance. The archway is flanked by two columns topped with Corinthian capitals. The archway’s keystone is carved in the shape of a lion’s head, a common motif in Roman architecture.
The Odeon’s seating area is divided into three sections: the diazoma, the lower cavea, and the upper cavea. The diazoma is a walkway that separates the lower and upper cavea and allows access to the seating area. The lower cavea is divided into several sections, with rows of seats separated by staircases. The upper cavea is also divided into sections, with the seats arranged in a radial pattern.
The Odeon’s stage is raised and features a semi-circular area for performers. The back wall of the stage is divided into three sections, with the central section featuring a niche for a statue. The Odeon’s stage was originally covered with a wooden roof, but this was later removed.
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