The Theater of Dionysus is largely known as the beginning for European theaters. Its name is derived from the central seat of the first row that has an inscription that says “the seat for the priest of Dionysos Eleutherios”. The theater was built during the time that acting and theatre had began to grow. The theater has seats constructed with wood and clay set around an orchestra. It was first used for theatrical performances written by tragic poets. The theater was used to honor the god Dionysus, and the plays were performed as celebrations.
Over the centuries, the site has had many renovations. So far, nine different building phases have been identified. In 330 BC, stone seats had been installed, and 14 rows have been added and what is left is part of the ruins today. This used to seat over 17,000 people, the first row (67 marble seats) served for dignitaries.
In the Roman Era, during Emperor Nero’s reign, a mosaic tile floor was added. At this time, the theater was mainly used to hold gladiator duels and fights with wild animals. Because of these events, a balustrade was built to protect the violence from the audience. In the 5th century, a podium was added.
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