An impression of the plan showing the proposed removal of earlier interventions at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Photo source: Culture Ministry
Greece has unveiled a comprehensive restoration plan for the Odeon of Herodes Atticus (Herodeon), the landmark Roman theater beneath the Acropolis, aimed at addressing structural wear and modernizing infrastructure while safeguarding one of the country’s most emblematic cultural venues.
The Greek Culture Ministry has assigned the restoration studies to the National Technical University of Athens, seeking to reinforce the monument’s structural integrity and upgrade facilities in a manner that respects both its historic character and surrounding urban landscape.
“Our goal, upon completion of the works, is for the monument to be adequately protected against natural and human-induced damage, improved in terms of legibility and fully upgraded to support the functional requirements of modern cultural events, foremost among them the Athens Festival,” Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said.
Scope of restoration works
Proposed addition of new sections to the monument. Photo source: Culture Ministry
The interventions span key structural and visitor areas of the monument.
Works will include the recovery of damaged walls and architectural elements, restoration of the dome and staircase, reinforcement of the southern stage wall, and reconstruction of the loggia – the covered colonnaded gallery – and its perimeter wall. The stage building and its mosaic floors – currently not visible to the public – will also be revealed.
In the Stage Hall, restoration efforts will re-establish its outline while allowing for the installation of temporary performance structures. Upgrades to the Foreground will enhance safety and accessibility while preserving architectural clarity.
Further interventions will focus on the side arches, facades and the curved wall, where the monument’s original geometry will be reinstated to improve both structural coherence and visitor circulation. Conservation of the original marble seating in the cavea, the theater’s tiered seating area, will continue, with selective seat additions where wear from audience use has occurred.
Restoration proposal for the southwest corner of the cavea. Photo source: Culture Ministry
The Promenade area will be restored to protect nearby archaeological remains from foot traffic, while rehabilitation of the eastern staircase and connecting routes will strengthen the historic link between the Odeon, the Stoa of Eumenes and the broader Acropolis pathways (known as the Peripatos).
The plan also includes the installation of a new semi-circular lighting and support structure to replace existing scaffolding, as well as upgrades to the water supply system and a reconstruction of the external sewage network.
Restoration proposal for the proscenium and eastern parodos. Photo source: Culture Ministry
Upon completion, the project aims to secure the monument’s long-term preservation while ensuring it remains fully functional for contemporary cultural events.
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