Herakleia reborn: the ancient Greek theatre of Policoro identified

Herakleia reborn: the ancient Greek theatre of Policoro identified

Archaeological fieldwork has confirmed the presence of the theatre belonging to the ancient city of Herakleia, in the area of present-day Policoro. This discovery fills a significant gap in the urban map of the Ionian polis, founded by Taranto in 433 BCE and known as one of the thriving centres of Magna Graecia.

Presentation of the results

• Date: Thursday 19 March 2026, 12:00 PM
• Venue: National Archaeological Museum "Dinu Adamesteanu", Potenza
• Scientific lead: Dr Carmelo Colelli, Director of the National Museum of Siritide and scientific director of the excavation
• Moderator: Dr Sabrina Mutino, Director of the Dinu Adamesteanu Museum
• Attending officials: President of the Basilicata Region Gen. Vito Bardi; Director-General of Italian Museums Prof. Massimo Osanna; Acting Director of the National Museums of Matera Dr Filippo Demma; the mayors of Potenza and Policoro

The 2025 survey campaign revealed structural and material evidence attributable to a public theatre, an element previously missing from the archaeological record of the city. These results expand the known layout of Herakleia—which already included residential quarters, streets, sanctuaries and public spaces—offering new data for the study of the polis's social and cultural life.

Funding and execution

The project was financed under a national programme for excavation campaigns in Pompeii and other archaeological parks and was carried out by the National Museums of Matera - Regional Directorate of National Museums Basilicata. The find will support future research and the enhancement of the Herakleia Archaeological Park.

For archaeologists, heritage professionals and the public, the 19 March presentation will provide detailed information on the discoveries, methodologies used and the next steps for research and site promotion.