THE ANCIENT THEATRE OF TAORMINA
A timeless masterpiece set against a backdrop of sky, sea and legend
The Greek Theatre in Taormina, also known as the Ancient Theatre, is one of Sicily’s most iconic landmarks and one of the most fascinating theatres in the world.
Perched on a natural terrace overlooking Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, its unique setting combines history, landscape and art.
Originally built by the Greeks around the 3rd century BC and later extended by the Romans, this extraordinary archaeological site continues to host performances of international renown today, reaffirming its status as a vibrant, evocative cultural venue.
The Greek Theatre in Taormina is much more than just an archaeological site: it’s an experience no visitor should miss, embodying the majestic spirit of Sicily at its most authentic.
A Brief History of the Greek Theatre
IThe theatre was built during the Hellenistic period, when Tauromenion (as Taormina was then known) was a Greek colony. Centuries later, the Romans expanded and altered it to suit their own spectacles, introducing arenas for combat and public games.
With an original capacity of around 5,000 spectators, the Greek Theatre was one of the most important cultural centres of ancient Sicily. It remains impressive to this day, with its perfect acoustics and the spectacular view from the tiered seating that sweeps across the sea, the coast of Calabria and Mount Etna.
- The theatre was cited by Goethe in his “Italian Journey” as one of the most beautiful places he had ever seen
- The stage is one of the few still in regular use after over 2,000 years of history
- It is the second largest ancient theatre in Sicily, after the one in Syracuse
The theatre today
The Greek Theatre in Taormina hosts numerous festivals, concerts and plays.
Some of the best-known events include the Taormina Film Fest and Taormina Arte, as well as concerts by international artists, opera, dance and classical performances. During the summer, the theatre becomes a stage under the stars, offering a truly unique experience.
