Anatolia, which has been home to many civilisations throughout history, takes its visitors on a journey through time with its fascinating ancient buildings still standing today. Especially, the ancient theatres in Turkey are among the architectural masterpieces of the Roman and Hellenistic periods. These ancient amphitheatres, with their magnificent acoustics, eye-catching stonework and enchanting atmosphere, fascinate not only history lovers but also anyone who loves nature and culture. If you are looking for “must-see ancient theatres in Turkey”, you can find the best-preserved and most impressive ancient theatres with all the details in this article. A route full of transportation information, nearby attractions and cultural significance awaits you.
Top Ancient Theaters to Visit in Turkey: A Journey Through History
Aspendos Ancient Theatre – Antalya
Located in the village of Belkıs in the Serik district of Antalya, the Aspendos Ancient Theatre is considered the pinnacle of Roman architecture. It was built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Marcus Aurelius by the architect Zenon. With a capacity of approximately 15,000 people, the structure is one of the best-preserved Roman theatres to have survived to the present day. Its acoustic structure is so perfect that even a whisper on stage can be heard from the top row.
Aspendos still hosts artistic events today. The annual Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival brings art and history together in this historic venue.
Places to visit in the surrounding area: Aspendos Aqueducts, Perge Ancient City, Köprülü Canyon.
Transportation: It can be reached in about 45 minutes by private vehicle or tour bus from the city centre of Antalya.
Ephesus Ancient Theatre – Izmir
One of the most eye-catching structures in the ancient city of Ephesus, located in the Selçuk district of Izmir, the theatre is one of the largest open-air theatres of the Roman period, with a capacity of 25,000 people. Built in the Hellenistic period and expanded in the Roman period, the theatre has been the scene of dramatic performances as well as gladiator fights. The theatre's seating rows, stage building, and stage front architecture are very well preserved.
The Ephesus Theatre, which has hosted many cultural events throughout its history, was also used as a gathering place for the city's people to socialise and make decisions in ancient times.
Places to visit in the surrounding area: Celsus Library, Temple of Artemis, House of the Virgin Mary.
Transportation: It is possible to reach Selçuk from the Izmir city centre by train, bus, or private vehicle.
Hierapolis Ancient Theatre – Denizli
Located just above the Pamukkale travertines, the theatre of the ancient city of Hierapolis was built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian. With a capacity of approximately 12,000 people, the theatre attracts attention with its exceptionally well-preserved stage building and reliefs. Mythological figures such as Dionysus and Apollo are depicted on the stage walls.
The theatre played an important role in the religious and social life of the city. It also serves as an important example in the world of archaeology, as it has survived to the present day in very good condition despite natural disasters.
Places to visit in the area: Pamukkale Travertines, Ancient Pool, Hierapolis Archaeological Museum.
Transportation: Pamukkale is easily accessible by minibus and bus from the city centre of Denizli.
Side Ancient Theatre – Antalya
Located in the town of Side in the Manavgat district of Antalya, this theatre is one of the rare examples of Roman architecture. With a capacity of 20,000, it stands out as the largest theatre in the Pamphylia region. Architecturally, unlike Greek theatres, the entire structure is built on supporting walls.
The theatre was the centre of religious rituals and social events, and also hosted large public gatherings. Today, various concerts and festivals are held in the theatre area during the summer months.
Places to visit in the surrounding area: Temple of Apollo, Side Museum, Ancient Harbour.
Transportation: It can be reached in a short time by minibus or taxi from Manavgat.
Bergama (Pergamon) Ancient Theater – Izmir
The theatre of the Pergamon Ancient City, located in the Bergama district of Izmir, is an important structure from the Hellenistic period. With a capacity of 10,000 people, the theatre is known as the steepest ancient theatre in the world with a 70-degree slope. From this theatre, carved into the Acropolis hill, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Bakırçay Plain.
The theatre was also an important part of the Acropolis, which served as the centre of science and art during the Bergama Kingdom period. It remains a popular destination for visitors today.
Nearby Attractions: Zeus Altar, Asklepion, Bergama Archaeology Museum. Transportation: It is possible to reach Bergama from the centre of Izmir by bus in approximately 2 hours.
Laodikeia Ancient Theatre - Denizli
Located in the north of Denizli, about 6 km southeast of Pamukkale, the ancient city of Laodikeia was one of the important trade and cultural centres of ancient Phrygia. There are two theatres in the city, one small and one large. The large theatre was built during the Roman period and has a capacity of approximately 20,000 people. The semicircular seating rows, the stage building and the orchestra are largely preserved.
Laodikeia was of great importance both religiously and economically in ancient times. The theatre was at the centre of city life as an indicator of this richness and vitality. Laodikeia, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, also has an important place in the history of Christianity; one of the seven churches mentioned in the Bible is here.
Places to Visit Around: Pamukkale Travertines, Hierapolis Ancient City, Karahayıt Hot Springs.
Transportation: It can be reached by private car from Denizli centre or Pamukkale minibuses in about 15 minutes.
Source: Kültür Envanteri
Kibyra Ancient Theatre - Burdur
Kibyra Ancient City, which is located in Gölhisar district of Burdur, has had a multicultural structure throughout history as it is located at the intersection of Pisidia, Lycia, Phrygia and Caria regions. One of the most remarkable structures of the city is the ancient theatre with a capacity of about 10,000 people. Thanks to the fact that the theatre is carved into the mountain slope on which it rests, the audience can both watch the plays and see the vast plain behind.
One of the most striking aspects of the Kibyra Theatre is the floor mosaics. In addition, the odeon, agora, stadium and bath structures in the city also reveal the architectural richness. The theatre of Kibyra was opened to visitors by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2016 and attracts more and more attention every year.
Places to Visit Around: Gölhisar Plain, Ibecik Plateau, Burdur Lake.
Transportation: It is possible to reach Gölhisar from Burdur city centre by bus or private car. After Gölhisar, Kibyra can be reached with a short walk.
Source: Küçük Dünya