The Bodrum Amphitheatre is a wonderful example of a classical Greek theatre. It’s a place where you can be part of an audience at a live show and retrace the footprints of ancient gladiators. It’s also a place from where to enjoy splendid views of Bodrum’s townscape, coastline and marina.
The amphitheatre is one of the great architectural masterpieces of the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus, modern day Bodrum. It dates back to the 4th century B.C. and the reign of King Mausolos. During the arena’s heyday it had a capacity of around 13,000 spectators and was used predominately for gladiator battles and theatrical plays.
The amphitheatre has three main areas: the stage, the orchestra and the audience. Stand on the stage and envisage a time when gladiators would fight, often until the brutal death of an opponent. Check out the engravings on the stone seats, thought to be the names of the people who helped to fund the arena’s construction.
Climb the steps to the top of the audience area to enjoy uninterrupted views and great photo opportunities. Spot major attractions such as Bodrum Castle and nearby Kara Ada Island. On a clear day you can see the Greek island of Kos. While at the top of the audience area, listen to the voices below and appreciate the amphitheatre’s impressive acoustics.
During the summer months the amphitheatre hosts a series of concerts by local and international musicians. Sezen Aksu, one of Turkey’s most-famous pop singers, is a regular performer. Concerts take place in the evening as the sun drifts down over the Aegean Sea. Ask at your hotel about a schedule of events.
The Bodrum Amphitheatre sits above the town centre of Bodrum and is within walking distance of the town’s major attractions. The Museum of Underwater Archaeology is a 30-minute walk away. If you don’t want to walk then take one of the many cheap dolmus, the local buses that travel on fixed routes.
The amphitheatre is open daily and admission is free.
