The Ancient Site of Philippi covers a large area at the current region of Krinides and is consisted of many different sections, subjected to thorough studies and observations by many scientists as wells as countless foreign and local visitors who come to have a tour at the site.
Ancient Philippi, located at the town of Krinides, is famous for the ancient theater that survives until today. It was built by the king of the region, Philip II of Macedonia and dates back to the mid-4^th century BC. The Ancient theater of Philippi dominates the foot of the Acropolis hill and is one of the most important theaters of Ancient Greece. Its structure changed through the centuries. During the Roman period, the theatre changed character to incorporate new events. For instance, in the 3^rd century AC it became an arena for fights between wild beasts. Thus the orchestra was built with marble slabs and a wall was constructed in front of the spectators in order to prevent any danger related to the beast fights.
During the Paleochristian period, the social events, the traditions and the values changed completely and the theatre was neglected and abandoned. Nowadays many of the old characteristics of the theatre are still preserved. Since 1957 the famous Festival of Philippi-Thassos takes place in this site, fairly competing with all the big Festivals of Greece. Every summer the Ancient Theatre of Philippi hosts great theatrical and dance performances as well as concerts of famous signers. It is a place of culture and continues to serve as such with devotion and respect, offering the chance to meet great artists and theatrical plays that have as well educational purpose. The “catharsis” (purification) of the Aristotelianism can be easily achieved in the well-structured site of the ancient theatre.