Where to go in Athens

The Odeon of Herod Atticus

This building is located underneath the Hill of Acropolis, in the center of Athens. It was totally revealed in 1857, when the excavation works finished. Everybody who decides to have a nice walk on Dionisiou Areopaghitou Pedestrian Street is able to find this ancient Odeon on his right hand.
The Odeon was constructed in 160-170 B.C. by Herod the Atticus. When his wife, Rigilli, died, people accused him of on loving her. So, Herod decided to build the Odeon as a gift to his beloved wife’s memory. It had a wooden roof and its capacity reached round to 5000 people.
Nowadays, the Odeon of Herod the Atticus is considered as one of the most popular ancient monuments in Athens. During all the year visitors can enter the Odeon using the ticket of Acropolis, in order to walk inside and see the place where ancient Greek musicians and actors used to perform in front of the Athenian audience.
But, the Odeon has more surprises for the Greeks. From May to October, during the “Greek Summer Festival”, the Odeon opens the doors for a large variety of festivals. Actors and musicians from all over the world organize performances in that place, offering to the visitors a great experience. During that period, many people are gathered in front of the Odeon to watch famous actors or singers and bands performing. It works as an open Odeon, since there is no more a roof on the top.
In general, the Odeon of Herod the Atticus is the best choice for the Athenians during the summer nights. This kind of festival is held in the town every year and the spectacle is really wonderful. So, any visit to Athens during that time has to be accompanied with a visit to the Odeon…

by Dionisis Kokkaliaris

posted by fejsgr @ 2:14 PM