Take a seat in the Teatro Greco’s ancient stone stands and imagine the gladiatorial battles, dramas and musical performances that took place here centuries ago. Now you can see acclaimed musicians and film festivals in this incredible setting, with the impressive shape of Mount Etna a fitting backdrop.
Teatro Greco (the Greek Theatre) is one of the largest ancient theatres in Sicily. The semi-circular design is typically Greek. A smaller Greek theatre may have existed on this site before it was reconstructed by the Romans in the second century. While the Greeks used the space primarily for theatre and music, the Romans favoured gladiatorial battles. Now it is one of Sicily’s premier performance spaces. Elton John and Sting have performed here in recent years.
Step inside the theatre and admire the grand, horseshoe-shaped audience stands and bare stonework nearly 2,000 years old. Look for inscriptions and shapes among the well-preserved ruins and imagine watching the gladiators taking the stage. Climb to the top of the stand for panoramic views across the Bay of Nexus. Gaze across the bright blue Ionian Sea or turn inland to see Mount Etna and the Calabria Mountains. Explore the area nearby and you will find the remains of a Roman temple beside the theatre.
Take the opportunity to attend a show at the theatre. Throughout the summer, performances usually take place weekly they are less regular the rest of the year. Performances in this spectacular venue are often of international calibre. The ticket office behind the stage will have information about any upcoming performances. If you are visiting in June, be sure to attend the Taormina Film Festival.
Teatro Greco is a short walk outside the city. It is open every day during the summer and has restricted hours in the winter. There is a small admission fee. Nearby find a selection of lively bars that share the theatre’s fantastic views.
