EPIDAURUS | ASCLEPIUS & THE RENOWNED THEATRE

Located on the fertile Argolid plain of the east Peloponnese and blessed with a mild climate and natural springs, the sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus was an important sacred centre in both ancient Greek and Roman times.

Epidaurus was named after the hero Epidauros, son of Apollo. Inhabited since Neolithic times, the first significant settlement was in the Mycenaean period.

Earlier regional worship of the deity Maleatas evolved into the later worship of Apollo, however that one of Asclepius was the most popular, as the Epidaurians believed he was possessing great healing powers and also that of prophecy. The god was visited from all over Greece by those seeking alleviation of their ailments by either divine intervention or medicines administered by the resident priests.

Today, the magnificent theatre that stands next to the Sanctuary of Asclepius, renowned for its acoustics, is still in active use for performances during the Epidaurus Festival.

Source: Ancient History Encyclopedia

Guided by your expert Historian, give in to your imagination and within mere instants you will be transferred to the cryptic world of Asclepius, God of Medicine. Enter the Sanctuary through the Propylaea and learn about the life-size Chryselephantine statue of a seated Asclepius that stood in full grandeur in the Doric Temple, the pediments of which were ornamented with statuary displaying the Amazonomachy and the Siege of Troy. Before you head to the imposing theatre, ensure you hear all about the mysterious underground labyrinth, perhaps containing snakes in the past, associated with Asclepius. Once in the Theatre, stand in the middle of the ‘orchestra’, speak a word and listen to it echoing in the universe.

Duration: approximately 2 hours

Cost: Prices upon request

What’s included: Private Local Licensed Historian, Entrance to Archaeological Site, Museum and Theatre.

Epidavros, Peloponnese

(Approximately one hour drive from Porto Heli or Xiropigado)

DETAILED INFORMATION