Segesta Greek Theatre

Calatafimi-Segesta, Italy

Built in the 3rd century BCE in the Hellenistic period but under Roman domination, the Segesta Greek Theatre comprises a perfect, vast semicircle 63 metres in diameter situated on a rocky slope: the steps face towards the hills behind which, to the right, the gulf of Castellammare can be discerned. Every year, in summer, the theatre comes to life and fills with spectators ready to enjoy, in a timeless moment, the tragedies and plays which fascinated ancient peoples.

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Founded: 3rd century BCE
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Italy

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Joe Sidonio (6 months ago)
It doesn't have the same fame as the amphitheatre of Taormina or some other parts of the island but it's a good sized theatre with a wonderful across the landscape. It's well-preserved dating from the 5th century BCE and in its heyday, held some 3,000 - 5,000 spectators.
Naomi Galea (7 months ago)
Nice temple. Price to enter is 12e for adults. There is a bus ride for 2.5e (not included in price) to take you up to the Roman remains. (These are up a steep hill) - walking up is also possible
Zoe (8 months ago)
It was decent. Missable in my opinion if it's out of your way, but it's neat to be around the history if you're interested. The views are insane though if you do have time. There's a bus you can pay extra to take you up the 1 km hill to the theatre. I prefer to explore by foot whenever possible as you can make more stops for views. I suggest bringing a lot of water and a big ol' hat or sun umbrella!
MarosH Hudak (11 months ago)
Well-preserved remains of an ancient Greek theater with stunning valley views. Definitely worth a visit. You can walk from the parking lot like we did (it's a 1.25 km uphill walk that takes about 20 minutes). Alternatively, you can take the shuttle bus (we only discovered this halfway up the hill). Beautiful views of the valley, recommended for a late afternoon visit when there are fewer crowds and the setting sun casts a magical glow.
Mike (11 months ago)
Beautiful ruins that show a glimpse of the past, but also how much has faded in time. The renderings that depict how large the settlement was leave you wondering how time could have faded away so much of it, but glad to still see some remnants of the past like the magnificent temple, or the open air theatre with a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside.
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Argos Theater

The ancient Argos Theater was built in 320 BC. and is located in Argos, Greece against Larissa Hill. Nearby from this site is Agora, Roman Odeon, and the Baths of Argos. The theater is one of the largest architectural developments in Greece and was renovated in ca 120 AD.

The Hellenistic theater at Argos is cut into the hillside of the Larisa, with 90 steps up a steep incline, forming a narrow rectilinear cavea. Among the largest theaters in Greece, it held about 20,000 spectators and is divided by two landings into three horizontal sections. Staircases further divide the cavea into four cunei, corresponding to the tribes of Argos A high wall was erected to prevent unauthorized access into the theatron and may have helped the acoustics, but it is said the sound quality is still very good today.

Around 120 CE, both theaters were renovated in the Roman style.