Bodrum Antique Theater is one of the most important historical monuments of Bodrum, which has hosted many civilizations since ancient times. Dating back to the 4th century BC, this theater was built as a natural amphitheater and is still in use today.
Bodrum Antique Theater is located in Yenikoy Neighborhood in the town center, close to Bodrum Castle. On the way from Bodrum to Turgutreis, it is on the right before reaching the Gumbet junction. Located on the southern skirts of Goktepe Mountain, this theater is one of the oldest theaters in Anatolia. The northern skirts of Goktepe Mountain are the necropolis, or cemetery, of the ancient city of Halicarnassus.
It is thought that the theater was built by King Mausolos in the 4th century BC before the Roman civilization. Mausolos is actually a sattap, in other words, he is in a position similar to today's governors, but he is referred to as the king of Caria in many historical sources due to the powers he has and his power to make decisions almost independent of the Persian rulership to which he is attached. You can find more information about Halicarnassus Mausoleum in our article.
Journey into the depths of history in a unique landscape
This unique theater overlooking the Aegean Sea came under the rule of the Roman Empire after the Carians and Persians and was used for gladiatorial games, tragedies and comedies, musical performances and other shows at that time. Its capacity is big enough to host between 10,000 spectators.
The theater was built by carving into the mountain
The most important feature of the theater is that it is a natural amphitheater carved into the mountain. The rows of seats are formed by placing marble on the rocks whose tops are flattened. The theater, like many ancient theaters, consists of 3 parts:
1- Skene (scene)
2- Orchestra (half round on the ground)
3- Cavea (seat rows)
Skene (Scene)
The stage, located in the southern part of the theater, was built on the sea-facing side of the sitting area. It is estimated that the stage, which has a rectangular structure, has 2 floors. It is thought that decorative plates were hung on the facade of this building and there was a podium in front of it.
Orchestra
The flat area larger than a semicircle between the cavea (seat rows) and the stage is called the orchestra. (There was a choir that supported the games played in ancient times with songs and choreography, and this choir was located in this area called the orchestra.) There is a large marble pedestal in front of the rows of seats in the orchestra area. It is estimated that offerings were sacrificed for the god Dionysus on this pedestal, which was used as an altar. Gladiator and wild animal fights were also held in the orchestra area from time to time.
Cavea (Seats)
The seating area, consisting of 55 rows, has a capacity of approximately 10,000 people. However, the 30 rows of seats at the top have not survived to the present day. The lower 25 rows are still in use today and can accommodate 3100 guests. The cavea is divided into 12 sections by 11 vertical stairs. This ensures that the theater can be filled and emptied easily. You can see vertical holes in some marbles in the sitting area. It is thought that these holes were dug in order to hang a canopy. The acoustics of the theater is very good. So much so that even the speech made in the orchestra section without using a loudspeaker can be heard comfortably from the rows of seats.
Visit is free
The theater, which was restored in the 1960s, 1970s and 1990s, was reorganized in 2002. The visit is free. If you want to visit the theater, which is used for cultural events today, on the day of the event, you may not be able to enter due to the stage preparations. But what makes this theater so special is that you still have the opportunity to watch a concert or event here. You can sit on the same benches as people 2500 years ago, breathe the same air as them, and enjoy watching a show against the same view.
Especially in the summer season, an event is held every few days, and famous artists take the stage here in an enchanting atmosphere.
When coming to the concert, keep in mind:
- Marble benches, which are heated throughout the day, are still hot when the event time comes. In addition, it is quite uncomfortable to sit on the marble during the show, which will continue for 2-3 hours. Although the organization companies distribute a sitting sponge for the event, it can remain very thin. Therefore, it is good to have a fluffy sponge with you.
- Parking may be insufficient. Therefore, we recommend that you arrive before the event time.
Bodrum Antique Theater is a must-visit place due to its historical texture, fascinating atmosphere and importance in terms of tourism. It is a unique feeling to witness a concert or event here. You can be sure that the enchanting atmosphere, wonderful acoustics and historical texture of the theater will impress you instantly.
Come on, attend an event at Bodrum Antique Theater this summer and have an unforgettable experience.
Bodrum Ancient Theater
Address: Yenikoy, Kibris Sehitleri Cad., 48400 Bodrum/Mugla
Opening time: 08:30
Closing Time: 19:00 (in summer) / 17:30 (in winter)
It is closed on Mondays.
To follow the events: instagram.com/bodrumantiktiyatro/