Taormina’s Ancient Greek Theater is a must see for anyone visiting the city. The theater is located high above Taormina and has breathtaking 360 views of the Calabrian Coast
How to get to The Taormina Greek Theater
From center city, take a right on Via Teatro Greco and follow it to the end. You’ll pass through a small area of shops and restaurants on the way, the theater is at the end of the road, next to Belmond Grand Hotel.
Cost
The cost is 10 Euro to get in, although members of the European union ages 18-25 pay only 5 Euro, it’s also FREE on your birthday! The theater always opens at 9:00am, although closing times vary throughout the year. Audio guides are free with purchase of a ticket.
History
The Ancient Greek Theater was built in 3rd Century BC. It was originally built to hold public gatherings such as plays and musicals, however during 2nd Century Roman Era the theater was transformed to accommodate competitions and gladiator battles. It’s estimated that when it was in use it could accommodate up to 6,000 spectators, although much of the seats have fallen apart over the years.
Taormina’s Ancient Greek Theater is the second largest theater in Sicily, the first being the Syracuse theater. Scholars estimate that spectators would come from all over Sicily, and mainland Italy to witness the gladiator battles.
The Greek theaters served as a gathering point for much of the population in the greater Sicilian area.
As you make your way to the top of the theater, it is hard to not stop and notice the amazing view of Taormina. The Greek Theater was built on a beautiful rocky cliff-side. It is said that during it’s construction, there were a total of 25 large columns that made up the entrance to the theater, it is believed that they arrived by sea from Greece and were pulled up the mountain by slaves.
Once your there you’ll understand how incredible of a feat this was. Go up the steps to the backside of the theater and you’ll find yet another amazing view to the North, on clear days you can see all the way up to Aspromonte mountain in mainland Italy.
The Ancient Greek Theater of Taormina is a breathtaking monument with incredible architecture, amazing views, and it’s easy to get to. Definitely take some time to see it if you find yourself in Sicily