When Was the First Greek Theatre Built?

Greek Theatre|Theater

The first Greek theatre was built in the late 6th century BC in the ancient Greek city of Epidaurus. The theatre was designed and constructed by Polykleitos the Younger, a renowned sculptor and architect from Argos.

The theatre was built to host religious events such as musical festivals, plays, and other forms of entertainment. It is thought that it was also used for political debates and assemblies as well as religious events.

The original design of the theatre consisted of a circular orchestra in the centre surrounded by a large semicircular seating area or auditorium. The seating area had two tiers with an estimated capacity of 17,000 people. There were also several entrances leading into the theatre from different directions, giving the audience easy access to their seats.

The stage was situated at one end of the auditorium and was made up of three levels: the lower level where actors entered from backstage; the middle level where actors performed; and the upper level which acted as a backdrop for scenes set in imaginary locations such as caves or palaces. In addition to this, there were also several side boxes on either side of the stage which provided additional seating for VIPs or dignitaries attending performances at the theatre.

The most remarkable feature of this ancient Greek theatre is that it was built without any mechanical aids such as cranes or pulleys – Polykleitos achieved this feat using only man-made tools like levers and ropes! This demonstrates just how advanced engineering skills were in Ancient Greece at that time.

In addition to its architectural significance, Epidaurus has come to be associated with some of Ancient Greece’s finest works of drama including those written by Sophocles and Aeschylus. Today, it is still considered one of Greece’s most important cultural sites and continues to attract visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its beauty and admire its historic legacy.

In conclusion, when was the first Greek Theatre built? The answer is late 6th century BC in Epidaurus by renowned sculptor and architect Polykleitos the Younger using only man-made tools like levers and ropes without any mechanical aids! It is still considered one of Greece’s most important cultural sites today due to its architectural significance and association with some of Ancient Greece’s finest works of drama written by Sophocles and Aeschylus.