Although Ioannina have many more residents than they used to have, they do not their own 18000-seat modern theatre. The preserved ancient theatre of Dodoni reminds us of the importance of art in people’s lives as well as the attention paid to it thousands years ago.
The ideal would be to get to attend the festival “Ipirotika” and listen to what the ancient drama artists have to say. However, it would be advisable to visit the theatre that has a view of the mountains whenever you choose to come to Dodoni.
It was constructed in the 3rd century B.C together with the temple of Zeus and the temple of Hercules by king Pyrros. Every four years the Naia where taking place which was a poetic competition in the honor of Zeus.
During this competition, people first heard of these important drama plays. However, the Romans used it as an arena. Gradually the area fell into decay and everything was covered in dirt until 1875.
Nowadays, you will visit a well-preserved theatre 22 kilometers outside Ioannina.
Opening hours: 8:00-17:00.