Greece has given the green light to a major, landmark restoration project for the Odeon of Herodes Atticus (commonly known as the Herodeon), the renowned ancient theater nestled on the southern slope of the Acropolis in Athens.
The Central Archaeological Council (KAS) recently approved a comprehensive program for the protection, restoration, and enhancement of this Roman-era monument. This decision marks one of the most significant conservation efforts in its modern history, following its closure to performances in late 2025 after the final season of the Athens Epidaurus Festival.
An interdisciplinary team from the National Technical University of Athens developed the detailed study serving as the project’s foundation. It will guide extensive conservation work, infrastructure improvements, and long-term management to preserve the site while enhancing its use for visitors and future cultural events.
A storied history as a cultural venue
Herodes Atticus constructed the odeon around 161 AD as a tribute to his wife, Appia Annia Regilla. Originally roofed with Lebanese cedar and seating about 5,000, it was designed as a premier space for musical performances under the shadow of the Acropolis.
The structure suffered destruction during the Heruli invasion in 267 AD and remained in ruins for centuries. Major reconstruction in the 1950s, using Pentelic marble for the stage and seating, revived it. Since 1955, it has been a cornerstone of the Athens Festival, hosting legends such as Maria Callas (who inaugurated its postwar era in 1957), Nana Mouskouri, Luciano Pavarotti, Vangelis, Mario Frangoulis, and even the Foo Fighters.
Key elements of the restoration
The project prioritizes structural reinforcement, especially around the stage building. Teams will complete and partially reconstruct select masonry sections to restore architectural unity and boost operational flexibility, all while preserving the historic materials.
The stage will be elevated to better showcase its three-dimensional form and accommodate temporary sets for large productions. The proscenium will be secured and opened to visitors, with arches in the parodoi (side entrances) restored. A new central access point will ease logistics for major events like those in the Athens Epidaurus Festival.
Special attention goes to protecting the ancient mosaic floor, which will be fully revealed for viewing outside performance seasons. A lightweight composite roof will allow natural light with minimal visual disruption, and integrated coverings will shield sensitive areas during shows.
The site will adopt a dual-use approach: festival season will see it configured with dressing rooms and support facilities, while off-season it will function as an open archaeological attraction.
Acoustic and visitor improvements
Acoustic protection is a major focus, as recent studies revealed sound levels stressing the structure. Speaker towers will be eliminated, loudspeakers banned from sensitive openings, and ground-based systems introduced instead. A new Acoustic Usage Regulation will enforce ongoing safeguards.
Additional works include reinforcing the main façade walls, restoring the curved rear wall’s geometry, and conserving the heavily used marble seating. The ancient Peripatos pathway and eastern staircase will be rehabilitated to reconnect the Herodeon with the Stoa of Eumenes and the broader Acropolis landscape, easing pressure on fragile remains.
The theater, already closed for performances (with tourist access possibly limited or adjusted during works), is expected to undergo these upgrades over approximately three years, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations while adapting to modern needs.