Photo gallery of the Ancient Theatre
Ancient Theatre in Hierapolis
Ancient Theatre in Hierapolis, Hierapolis, Turkey
The Ancient Theatre is located within the ancient city of Hierapolis in Pamukkale, Turkey, on a plateau above the travertine terraces. The structure dates from the early 2nd century AD, and the stage decoration was completed in the early 3rd century. The theatre is part of the Hierapolis-Pamukkale archaeological park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The theatre seats around 12,000 spectators and retains the typical Roman layout: a semicircular cavea with about 50 rows, an orchestra and a monumental stage. On the facade of the stage you can see colonnades, bas-reliefs with mythological and imperial scenes, decorative sculptures, and in the orchestra the marble seats of honor have been preserved.
The monument survived earthquakes and several phases of restoration. Since the mid-20th century it has been studied and restored, making it today a rare well-preserved example of a Roman theatre in Asia Minor. From the upper rows there are views over the valley of the Menderes River.
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The Ancient Theatre is located within the ancient city of Hierapolis in Pamukkale, Turkey, on a plateau above the travertine terraces. The structure dates from the early 2nd century AD, and the stage decoration was completed in the early 3rd century. The theatre is part of the Hierapolis-Pamukkale archaeological park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The theatre seats around 12,000 spectators and retains the typical Roman layout: a semicircular cavea with about 50 rows, an orchestra and a monumental stage. On the facade of the stage you can see colonnades, bas-reliefs with mythological and imperial scenes, decorative sculptures, and in the orchestra the marble seats of honor have been preserved.
The monument survived earthquakes and several phases of restoration. Since the mid-20th century it has been studied and restored, making it today a rare well-preserved example of a Roman theatre in Asia Minor. From the upper rows there are views over the valley of the Menderes River.
Best views from the upper rows and notable acoustics.
View tiers and acoustics of the ancient theatre
It is convenient to start your visit from the orchestra: here you can clearly hear how a voice reaches the upper rows without amplification. Then climb to the upper tiers for panoramas of the valley and the white terraces of Pamukkale. Along the way note the details of the stage wall and the information panels - they show the stages of excavation and restoration.
The best times for photos and a relaxed visit are morning and the hours before sunset - the soft light then brings out the stone carving. The site has signs and barriers; leaving the paths and climbing on decorative elements is prohibited. Concerts and performances are held periodically - check schedules and opening hours in advance at the ticket offices and on the park's official resources.
Nearby are the Temple of Apollo and the Plutonium, a little farther - the Frontinus Gate, an extended necropolis and the Archaeological Museum of Hierapolis housed in the Roman baths.
How to get there: the theatre is located inside the Hierapolis archaeological park in Pamukkale - follow the signs from the central part of the ruins, a 15-25 minute uphill walk; electric carts operate in high season.
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