The theatre of the ancient city of Epidavros offers a tangible connection to the history of Palaia Epidaurus: it was built in several phases, and inscriptions on the benches and thrones refer to the cult of Dionysus. Nearby, there is an archaeological route, Vayionia Beach, and opportunities for water sports and cycling. This allows you to weigh up cultural history, the coast and outdoor activities as different focuses for your trip.

The Little Theatre and its construction history

The theatre is located on the Nisi peninsula in Palaia Epidaurus and is also known as the Little Theatre of Epidavros. Construction began around the middle of the 4th century BC and continued in stages into the Hellenistic period. Its construction history therefore comprises several phases rather than a single building date. All the benches and thrones bear inscriptions with the names of their donors; these point to a direct connection between the monument and the cult of Dionysus. The construction period and the donors’ inscriptions offer two different points of reference: one places the monument’s creation in its historical context, while the other points to its religious significance. Anyone interested in cultural history will find both a multi-phase construction history and a reference to the cult of Dionysus here.

Archaeological sites in Palaia Epidaurus

An archaeological route through the town leads to the Mycenaean Necropolis and the theatre of the ancient city of Epidavros, also known as the Little Theatre of Epidavros. The Mycenaean Necropolis lies west of the modern town and consists of groups of chamber tombs carved into the natural rock. These groups of tombs offer a different archaeological perspective from the theatre: here, the focus is on chamber tombs and their rock-cut construction, while the theatre is characterised by its construction phases and donors’ inscriptions. Those interested in ancient building techniques can compare the two sites based on these different features. The route leads to both sites within the town, giving them a shared archaeological context.

Beach and activities

Vayionia is close to the centre of Palaia Epidaurus and has both pebbly and sandy stretches. The beach therefore combines two different types of ground, while its location near the centre provides a clear point of reference. Visitors to Palaia Epidaurus can also enjoy water sports and cycling. These offer different ways to spend time actively: water sports and cycling each appeal to different interests, while Vayionia adds a beach with both pebbly and sandy areas.

Choose Epidavros according to your interests

For planning your trip, the different themes are easy to distinguish: the theatre represents construction history and the connection to the cult of Dionysus, while the necropolis is known for its groups of chamber tombs cut into the rock. If you would like to include some activity in your stay, you can consider water sports or cycling; Vayionia offers another coastal focus. When looking for accommodation in Epidavros, you can first decide which of these interests you want to shape your trip.

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