The Roman Theatre and the Odeon – an ancient complex in the heart of Catania

History and Description

The complex of the Roman Theatre and the Odeon of Catania is located in the historic center of the city, on the southern slopes of the Montevergine hill, which once formed the acropolis of the ancient Greek city of Katane. The archaeological area has Greek origins, but the current structure of the theatre dates back to the Roman era, with initial construction phases in the 1st century AD and extensions in the 2nd century. The Odeon, a smaller theatre adjacent to the main one, was also built in the 2nd century AD, at the same time as the enlargements of the principal Theatre.

The main Theatre could seat about 7,000 spectators, arranged in a semicircular cavea divided into nine sections by vertical stairways, creating “wedges” of seating. The Odeon, instead, was used for musical performances, rehearsals, and smaller shows, featuring a compact cavea and a capacity of around 1,300–1,500 people. Over time, many parts of the complex were covered by houses and later constructions, until the restorations carried out in the 1970s, which made visible again the cavea, most of the corridors, the orchestra, parts of the stage building, and the foundation walls, as well as lava-stone steps, marble seats in the lower rows, and remains of decorations.

Curiosities

The Odeon served not only as a venue for concerts and musical performances but was probably also used as a rehearsal space for the shows staged in the main Theatre.

Access Information

The archaeological area of the Roman Theatre and the Odeon is open daily, with hours varying by season, at an entrance fee of €8, with free and discounted admissions available.

How to Get Here

Located in the heart of Catania, the theatre is easily accessible on foot from the city center or by public transport, using the lines that serve Via Vittorio Emanuele.

The Roman Theatre and the Odeon of Catania are an essential site for understanding the city’s history and charm, a must-see for anyone exploring its ancient soul.

Photo credits: Matthias Süßen (Wikipedia) – Licensed under CC 4.0