Aspendos’ theatre is a richly decorated historic monument dating back to Roman times. It was built between 160-180 A.D. Upon arrival; you are struck by the immense façade of approximately 22 meters high and 100 meters wide. Sources state a capacity varying between 7.300 up to 20.000 people. On the UNESCO website, they mention a maximum of 8.500 people if the stairs are used as seating as well. In any case, the semi-circular theatre is divided in a lower and an upper section of respectively 20 and 21 rows, topped by a barrel-vaulted collonade gallery. The two-storied stage building still stands to its full height.
In recent years, the theatre underwent significant restorations, particularly the seating area. A lot has been said and written about it as people were especially criticizing the white marble used to renew the seats. Having visited Aspendos both before and after the restorations feels that within time, the new marble will start to blend in with the old pieces, and it doesn’t diminish in any way the grandeur or the experience of visiting this architectural masterpiece.
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