Thursday, 31 July 2014

Theatre of Oropos


References

Ancient Theatre in Piraeus (Theatre of Zea)


References




DEME THEATERS IN ATTICA AND THE TRITTYS SYSTEM
Jessica Paga
Hesperia: The Journal of the American School of Classical Studies at Athens
Vol. 79, No. 3 (July-September 2010), pp. 351-384

Susanne Moraw; Eckehart Nölle; Deutsches Theatermuseum München (2002). Die Geburt des Theaters in der griechischen Antike. Ph. von Zabern. ISBN 978-3-8053-2909-5.

Wednesday, 30 July 2014

Theatre of Eretria







References


Wilhelm Dörpfeld; Emil Reisch (1896). Das griechische theater. Das Theater in Eretria.: Barth & von Hirst. pp. 113–.

Excavations by the School at Eretria, 1891. 
The American Journal of Archaeology and of the History of the Fine Arts, Vol. 7, No. 3 (Sep., 1891), pp. 233- Archaeological Institute of America

C Waldstein - American Journal of Archaeology and of the History of …, 1891 - JSTOR

RB Richardson - American Journal of Archaeology and of the History of …, 1891 - JSTOR

RB Richardson - American Journal of Archaeology and of the History of …, 1891 - JSTOR

A Fossum - American Journal of Archaeology and of the History of …, 1891 - JSTOR

A Fossum - American Journal of Archaeology and of the History of …, 1891 - JSTOR

E Capps - American Journal of Archaeology and of the History of …, 1895 - JSTOR

TW Heermance - American Journal of Archaeology and of the History of …, 1896 - JSTOR




Thursday, 17 July 2014

Delphi Theatre



Aρχαίο θέατρο Δελφών

DIAZOMA - Ancient Theatre of Delfi






Archaeology in Greece -- 1893-4
E. A. G.
The Journal of Hellenic Studies
Vol. 14, (1894), pp. 224-232






Émile Bourguet (1914). Les ruines de Delphes. Fontemoing et Cie.

Théophile Homolle; Émile Bourguet; Gaston Colin; Natan Valmin, Georges Daux (1909). Fouilles de Delphes: Épigraphie

Weir Robert. Nero and the Herakles Frieze at Delphi. In: Bulletin de correspondance hellénique. Volume 123, livraison 2, 1999. pp. 397-404.
http://www.persee.fr/articleAsPDF/bch_0007-4217_1999_num_123_2_7233/article_bch_0007-4217_1999_num_123_2_7233.pdf?mode=light

J.-F. Bommelaer, «Observations sur le théâtre de Delphes», in Delphes: Centenaire de la 'Grande Fouille' réalisée par l'École Française d'Athènes (1892-1903), edited by J.-F. Bommelaer, Leiden, 1992, pp. 276-300

Jean-François Bommelaer (1992). Delphes: centenaire de la "grande fouille" réalisée par l'Ecole française d'Athènes, 1892-1903 : actes du colloque Paul Perdrizet, Strasbourg, 6-9 novembre 1991. Brill. pp. 277–300. ISBN 978-90-04-09824-4.

The Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi: Location, Archaeology, Purpose, and Construction

1. Introduction: Setting the Scene of the Sanctuary of Delphi and the Significance of its Theatre.

The sanctuary of Delphi, nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus in Central Greece, held immense significance in the ancient Greek world. Revered as the dwelling place of the Oracle of Apollo, it served as a pan-Hellenic centre for religious, political, and cultural unity from as early as the 6th century BC.1 Its mythical status as the 'navel of the world' further amplified its importance, with legend recounting that Zeus himself marked the spot as the meeting point of two eagles released from opposite ends of the earth.1 Within this sacred landscape, the Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi stands as a key monument, a testament to the artistic and intellectual achievements of the era.1 Its presence alongside temples and other structures underscores the integrated nature of ancient Greek society, where artistic expression was deeply intertwined with religious and communal life. The theatre, therefore, is not merely an architectural marvel but a reflection of the core values and beliefs that defined Hellenic civilisation.

2. Locating the Theatre: Providing the Precise Geographical Coordinates and Describing the Theatre's Location within the Delphi Archaeological Site.

The Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi is situated within the archaeological site at various recorded geographical coordinates, reflecting the precision of modern surveying techniques. These coordinates pinpoint its location on the global map, with decimal degrees recorded as approximately 38.482450N, 22.500706E 5; 38.4827681, 22.4831504 6; 38.48246, 22.50053 7; and 38.482553°, 22.500708°.8 Expressed in degrees, minutes, and seconds, the location is noted as 38°28'58.0"N, 22°30'02.4"E 6; 38° 28′ 57.33″ N, 22° 30′ 04.91″ E 9; 38°28′56″N, 22°30′04″E 10; and 38° 28.94′ N, 22° 30.026′ E.11 These slight variations likely arise from different surveying methods or specific reference points within the theatre structure.

Within the Delphi archaeological site, the theatre occupies a prominent position, located within the sanctuary of Apollo itself.8 It is built higher up the hill than the Temple of Apollo, offering ancient spectators, and modern visitors alike, sweeping panoramic views of the entire sanctuary below and the valley stretching beyond.3 This elevated placement was a deliberate choice, integrating the dramatic natural landscape into the theatrical experience and likely enhancing the atmosphere of the performances held there. The theatre faces southeast, providing views towards the valley and the Gulf of Corinth in the distance.7 Specifically, it is situated in the northwest corner of the sanctuary, nestled against the temenos, or enclosure wall, of the Temple of Apollo.8 This proximity suggests a close functional and symbolic relationship between the theatre and the central religious structure, indicating that the artistic and musical events held within its walls were integral to the worship and celebration of the god Apollo.8

3. Unearthing the Past: Archaeological Investigations: Detailing the History of Excavations at the Theatre.

Interest in the ancient site of Delphi dates back to the 15th century, with travellers documenting its ruins.17 However, it was not until the 19th century that more formal archaeological interest began to take hold. The pivotal moment came in 1892 with the initiation of the "Great Excavation" (La Grande Fouille) led by the French School at Athens under the direction of Théophile Homolle.7 This extensive undertaking was crucial in revealing the theatre and other significant structures at Delphi, laying the foundation for our current understanding of the site. The initial excavations presented considerable logistical challenges, most notably the relocation of the entire village of Kastri, which had been built directly over the ancient ruins.17

Key figures played vital roles in these early investigations. Paul Foucart's initial uncovering of part of the polygonal wall in 1860 sparked further French interest.7 Later, Albert Tournaire's meticulous architectural drawings, published in 1902, provided invaluable documentation of the theatre's condition at the time of excavation.7 Subsequent research by a host of scholars has continued to refine our understanding of the theatre. For instance, C. Anti's 1940s theory proposing a trapezoidal odeon beneath the cavea was later disproven.7 Updated plans were produced by Hansen and Algreen-Ussing in the 1970s, while Mary Sturgeon contributed to the understanding of the theatre's architectural decoration, and Louis Robert extensively analysed the epigraphic evidence found at the site.7

Archaeological work at Delphi remains ongoing, with the Greek Archaeological Service collaborating with the French School at Athens.7 Recent efforts have increasingly focused on the long-term preservation, improved accessibility, and enhanced presentation of the existing discoveries rather than on extensive new excavations.7 The theatre itself has been the subject of continued attention, with current restoration and preservation works scheduled to conclude in 2027. These efforts aim to address chronic geological issues, as the site sits on a tectonic fault line, as well as the impact of climate change on the soil, which is prone to erosion and sedimentation.4 The restoration will involve repairing damaged limestone blocks and reconstructing the destroyed eastern part of the theatre with the addition of approximately one hundred new blocks.4

4. Architectural Anatomy: Describing the Architectural Features of the Theatre.

The Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi exhibits a classic design adapted to the challenging terrain of the mountainside. Its cavea, the seating area for the audience, slightly exceeds a semicircle in its overall plan.7 This seating area is divided horizontally into two uneven sections by a paved diazoma, a walkway that facilitated the movement of spectators.4 The lower section, known as the theatron, comprises 27 or 28 rows of seats 4 and is further divided vertically by radiating staircases into seven wedge-shaped sections called cunei.4 The upper section, or epitheatron, is smaller, with seven or eight rows of seats divided into six cunei.4 The construction of the cavea ingeniously utilised the natural landscape, built partly on the bedrock to the north and west and partly on artificial fill to the south and east, supported by substantial retaining walls.8 The theatre had a significant seating capacity, estimated at around 5,000 spectators 3, although some sources suggest a slightly lower figure of 4,200 to 4,600.26 The width of the cavea measures approximately 52 meters.6 The seats themselves are made of local Parnassus limestone 3, and remarkably, many of the original stone seats remain in place today.7 Notably, inscriptions have been found incised on some of the seats, including official titles such as "amphictyonon" and "symboulon," as well as proper names, indicating reserved seating for dignitaries and individuals during the Roman period.7

The orchestra, the circular performance space at the centre of the theatre, has a diameter of around 18.4 or 18.5 meters.6 Originally, it was smaller, with a diameter of approximately 14 meters.15 The floor of the orchestra is paved with stone slabs and features a drainage channel called the euripos, located beneath a 2.20-meter-wide passageway that encircles the orchestra.4 The horseshoe shape of the orchestra and the unevenly sized paving stones are modifications dating from the Roman period.4 This space served primarily as the performance area for the chorus in ancient Greek drama.15

Opposite the cavea and orchestra stood the stage building, or skene, which was rectangular in plan.8 Today, only the foundations of this structure remain.4 The stage was likely divided into a proscenium, the area in front of the main stage, and the stage proper.4 The proscenium was a small stoa, or colonnaded portico, with columns or half-columns facing the orchestra.8 In the 1st century AD, the façade of the proscenium was adorned with a marble frieze carved in relief, approximately 10 meters long and 0.85 meters high, depicting the Labours and other deeds of Hercules.4 This exquisite frieze is now displayed in the Delphi Museum.13 The stage proper was an elevated platform from which the actors performed.7 Access to the stage and orchestra was provided by the parodoi, or side entrances.4 Notably, the retaining walls of the parodoi were carved with inscriptions detailing the manumission, or freeing, of slaves.4

Dimensions and Capacity of the Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi


Feature

Value(s)

Source(s)

Notes

Cavea Width

~52 meters

6


Orchestra Diameter

18.4-18.5 meters (later)

6

Roman Period


~14 meters (original)

15

Original

Seating Capacity

~5,000 spectators

3


Number of Rows (Lower)

27-28 rows

4


Number of Rows (Upper)

7-8 rows

4


Height (Orchestra to Top Row)

~15 meters

15


5. A Stage for the Gods: Purpose and Function: Exploring the Historical and Cultural Context of the Theatre.

The Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi served as a primary venue for the musical contests, encompassing both song and instrumental music, of the prestigious Pythian Games.3 These games, held in honour of Apollo, were of paramount cultural significance, considered the artistic and intellectual equivalent to the athletic stadium at Olympia 4, and second only to the Olympic Games in overall importance within the ancient Greek world.7 Beyond the Pythian Games, the theatre also hosted other religious festivals and rituals 11, including the festival of the Soteria, which honoured Zeus Soter and Apollo.8

Furthermore, the theatre was a vibrant centre for various forms of artistic expression, including theatrical performances, poetry recitals, and music performances.3 It is quite likely that plays written by renowned Athenian playwrights were staged here, contributing to the dissemination and celebration of Greek dramatic traditions.30 As an integral part of the Temple of Apollo, the theatre was directly connected to the myths and cult of the god.8 This close relationship underscores the understanding that artistic performance and religious worship were deeply intertwined at Delphi. Performances may have even depicted the sacred narratives associated with Apollo's oracle and his legendary battle with the serpent Python.7 In essence, the theatre served as a crucial hub of artistic and cultural expression, reflecting the intrinsic role of such activities within the religious practices of ancient Greece.15

6. Chronicles in Stone: Construction and Modifications: Presenting the Estimated Dates and Periods of Construction.

Archaeological and historical evidence suggests a fascinating construction history for the Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi, spanning several centuries. It is presumed that a more rudimentary theatre with wooden seating existed on the site prior to the construction of the stone structure.5 These early, wooden theatral structures are believed to date back to the 6th century BC and are primarily known through literary sources and vase-paintings.5

The first stone-built theatre was constructed in the 4th century BC 3, possibly to replace the earlier wooden structure.29 This period of construction aligns with a significant era of architectural development in ancient Greece, particularly in the design of public performance spaces.5 Later, during the Hellenistic period, the lower tiers of seats may have been added 3, with the initial completion of the stone theatre likely occurring in the early Hellenistic period.7 A significant restoration effort was undertaken in 160/159 BC, funded by Eumenes II of Pergamon, which gave the theatre a more monumental form.4 This act of patronage from a powerful ruler underscores the theatre's prestige and cultural importance.

The theatre continued to undergo modifications during the Roman period. Its present form is generally dated to the Early Roman period, around the 1st century AD.8 Renovations were carried out prior to the visit of Emperor Nero in 67 AD, which included paving the orchestra floor and adding a stone parapet around it.11 Further alterations were funded by the Roman senator Herodes Atticus in the 2nd century AD, at the same time he contributed to the nearby stadium.15 A typical Roman adaptation involved the removal of the first few rows of seats to create a raised podium, bringing the performances closer to the audience.7 These Roman-era modifications reflect the continued use and adaptation of the theatre to suit Roman performance styles and imperial patronage, indicating its enduring significance even under Roman rule.

Construction Phases of the Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi


Period/Date

Event

Supporting Snippet(s)

6th Century BC

Possible existence of rudimentary wooden theatre

5

4th Century BC

Construction of the first stone-built theatre

3

Hellenistic Period

Possible construction of lower tiers of seats

3

160/159 BC

Restoration funded by Eumenes II of Pergamon

4

Early Roman Period (1st Century AD)

Present form of the theatre dated

8

67 AD

Renovations before Emperor Nero's visit (paving orchestra, parapet)

11

2nd Century AD

Further alterations funded by Herodes Atticus

15

1st-2nd Century AD

Removal of first seat rows for a raised podium

7

7. The Science of Sound: Acoustics and Design: Analysing the Acoustics and Design Principles.

The Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi was renowned for its exceptional acoustics, a feature that allowed sound to travel across its large open-air space with remarkable clarity.25 This acoustic excellence was not accidental but rather the result of sophisticated design principles employed by ancient Greek architects, combined with the favourable natural topography of the site. The theatre's construction on the natural slope of the hill provided a tiered seating arrangement (cavea), which naturally facilitated sound propagation.5 The semicircular or horseshoe shape of the cavea 8 was a significant design choice that improved acoustics and increased seating capacity compared to earlier rectilinear theatre designs.41 The orientation of the theatre was also carefully considered to minimise the impact of external noise and to optimise the way sound waves travelled within the space.43 The use of sound-reflective materials, such as the local limestone in the seats 3, may have also played a role, potentially acting as an acoustic filter. The orchestra, with its paved surface, likely served as another sound-reflecting element, contributing to the overall acoustic quality.44 While the stage building (skene) could influence sound reflection and reinforcement in some ancient theatres, the Delphi theatre's early phases lacked a substantial permanent skene.44 The theatre's capacity to seat around 5,000 spectators 3 underscores the importance of these public performances for a large audience. Modern scholarly research continues to analyse the acoustics of ancient Greek theatres, including Delphi, often employing advanced scientific techniques like acoustic measurements and computer modelling to understand the principles behind their remarkable sound quality.41 These studies sometimes compare Delphi's acoustics with those of other well-preserved ancient theatres, such as Epidaurus and Taormina.42

8. A Sanctuary of Structures: Interrelationships: Examining the Relationship Between the Theatre and Other Significant Structures.

The Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi was strategically positioned within the sanctuary of Apollo in relation to other key structures, reflecting the interconnectedness of religious, athletic, and artistic activities at the site. Located higher up the slope of Mount Parnassus, the theatre overlooked the Temple of Apollo.3 Its placement within the temenos, or sacred enclosure, of Apollo 8 visually and symbolically linked the performances held within its walls to the worship of the god and the pronouncements of the Oracle.8 Further up the hill from the theatre was situated the stadium.3 This separation of the theatre, primarily used for musical and dramatic events, and the stadium, the venue for athletic contests 1, highlights the distinct yet complementary roles of artistic and physical pursuits within the Pythian Games and other festivals held at Delphi. While primarily for athletics, the stadium was also sometimes used for music festivals.3

The Sacred Way, the main processional route leading from the entrance of the sanctuary up towards the Temple of Apollo, passed below the theatre.2 This location would have made the theatre a prominent structure visible to pilgrims as they ascended to consult the Oracle and participate in the sanctuary's various activities. Along the Sacred Way, below the Temple of Apollo and thus further down the slope from the theatre, were located the treasuries.2 While not directly adjacent, the presence of the theatre within the same sacred space as these votive offerings underscores the overall significance of Delphi as a major religious and cultural centre, attracting both material wealth and hosting important public events.

9. Echoes of the Past: Significant Events and Performances: Investigating Known Events.

The Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi resonated with the sounds of numerous significant events and performances throughout its history. Its primary function was as the venue for the musical contests of the Pythian Games, featuring competitions in singing and playing instruments such as the lyre and aulos.3 These contests were major cultural highlights, drawing participants from across the Greek world. The theatre also hosted dramatic plays, with it being likely that the works of famous Athenian playwrights were performed for the Delphi audience.3 Poetry recitals were another important feature of the events held in the theatre, highlighting the ancient Greek appreciation for oral tradition and literature.3 Performances were also integrated into other religious festivals and rituals held at Delphi 11, including the festival of the Soteria.8 During the Roman period, the types of performances diversified, with inscriptions suggesting the theatre hosted dancers, tight-rope walkers, acrobats, and rope-dancers.7 In modern times, the theatre has witnessed significant revivals of ancient drama, most notably the First Delphic Festival in 1927, which saw the first performance of an ancient tragedy, Aeschylus' Prometheus Bound, in the theatre for two millennia, an event instigated by the poet Angelos Sikelianos and his wife Eva Palmer.8 The Second Delphic Festival in 1930 featured a performance of Euripides' Suppliants.8

10. Current Perspectives: Recent Discoveries and Research: Reporting on Recent Findings.

The Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi continues to be a subject of active research and conservation efforts. Ongoing restoration and preservation works are currently underway, scheduled for completion in 2027. These efforts are focused on addressing the geological challenges of the site and the impact of climate change, including the repair of damaged limestone blocks and the reconstruction of the theatre's destroyed eastern section.4 Modern digital technologies are also being applied to the study of the theatre. Initiatives like 'Delphi4Delphi' have utilised 3D imaging techniques, such as Structure from Motion (SfM) and CAVEcam measurements, to create detailed digital models of the theatre and other monuments at Delphi, facilitating more in-depth analysis and virtual reconstructions.55 While not directly concerning the theatre, thermal UAV scans have been used in the broader Delphi area, potentially leading to the verification of previously lost structures.56 Scholarly interest in the theatre remains strong, as evidenced by continued research resulting in updated architectural plans, analyses of the theatre's decoration, and studies of the epigraphic evidence found at the site.7

11. Conclusion: Summarizing the Key Aspects of the Theatre and its Importance.

The Ancient Greek Theatre at Delphi stands as a remarkable testament to the religious, cultural, and artistic vibrancy of ancient Greece. Its strategic location within the Sanctuary of Apollo, overlooking the Temple and integrated with the natural landscape, underscores its importance within the sacred precinct. Primarily a venue for the prestigious musical contests of the Pythian Games, the theatre also hosted a variety of other performances, from dramatic plays and poetry recitals to religious rituals and Roman-era entertainments. Its architectural features, including the well-preserved cavea, the orchestra, and the remnants of the stage, reflect sophisticated design principles that contributed to its renowned acoustics. Constructed initially in the 4th century BC and modified over centuries by Hellenistic and Roman patrons, the theatre's evolution mirrors the changing cultural landscape of the ancient world. Ongoing archaeological research and restoration efforts demonstrate a continued commitment to preserving and understanding this invaluable heritage site for future generations.

Works cited

  1. Archaeological Site of Delphi - UNESCO World Heritage Centre, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/393/

  2. Delphi - Oracle, Greece & Temple - HISTORY, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-greece/delphi

  3. Delphi Archaeological Site – Ancient Greece: Φώς & Λέξη, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://ancient-greece.org/archaeology/delphi-archaeological-site/

  4. Emblematic Ancient Theater of Delphi To Undergo New Restoration - GreekReporter.com, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://greekreporter.com/2024/04/13/emblematic-ancient-theater-delphi-undergo-new-restoration/

  5. Ancient Greek Theatres - UNESCO World Heritage Centre, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/5869/

  6. Delphi. Greek Theatre - Whitman College, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.whitman.edu/theatre/theatretour/delphi/delphi.htm

  7. Delphi (modern Delphi, Greece) - The Ancient Theatre Archive, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://ancienttheatrearchive.com/theatre/delphi/

  8. Ancient Theater of Delphi | ΔΙΑΖΩΜΑ, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://diazoma.gr/en/theaters/ancient-theatre-of-delphi/

  9. File:Ancient Greek theatre of Delphi 01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ancient_Greek_theatre_of_Delphi_01.jpg

  10. Temple of Apollo (Delphi) - Wikipedia, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_of_Apollo_(Delphi)

  11. The (Delphi) Theatre - The Historical Marker Database, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=126338

  12. Ministry of Culture and Sports | Ancient theatre of Delphi, accessed on May 1, 2025, http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/2/eh251.jsp?obj_id=4932

  13. Theatre of Delphi Tours | Athens Tours | Travelcurious.com, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://travelcurious.com/greece/athens/attractions/theatre-of-delphi-A00LXI

  14. Ancient Theatre in Delphi, Greece - Greeka, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.greeka.com/sterea/delphi/sightseeing/ancient-theatre/

  15. The Theater of Delphi | History & Architecture, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.delphi-tours.com/theater-of-delphi/

  16. Delphi. The Theatre & The Stadium - Odyssey: Adventures in Archaeology, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.odysseyadventures.ca/articles/delphi/articleDelphi02c.html

  17. EXCAVATIONS - Archaeological Site of Delphi - Museum of Delphi, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://delphi.culture.gr/archaelogical-site/excavations/

  18. Excavations at Delphi - Wikipedia, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Excavations_at_Delphi

  19. VIRTUAL DELPHI: TWO CASE STUDIES, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.isprs.org/proceedings/xxxvi/5-c53/papers/FP063.pdf

  20. From 1846 to the present day – EFA - École française d'Athènes, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.efa.gr/who-are-we/from-1846-to-the-present-day/?lang=en

  21. Delphi - Wikipedia, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delphi

  22. What Lies Beneath: The Great Excavation SACRED DELPHI​ - Portes Magazine, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.portesmagazine.com/post/what-lies-beneath-the-great-excavation-sacred-delphi

  23. Theatre of Delphi - World History Encyclopedia, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.worldhistory.org/image/415/theatre-of-delphi/

  24. Delphi, Theatre, Stadium, Pythian Games, - Alaturka.Info, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.alaturka.info/en/general/99-turkey/3475-apollon-camping-delphi-and-mount-parnass/en/greece/delphi/3671-delphi-from-the-theater-up-to-the-stadium

  25. The Ancient Theater of Delphi: A Journey Through Time - Evendo, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://evendo.com/locations/greece/delphi/attraction/the-ancient-theater-of-delphi

  26. ancienttheater.culture.gr, accessed on May 1, 2025, http://ancienttheater.culture.gr/en/ekpaideftikoyliko/entupa/follow-me-to-the-ancient-theatrs-odeia-1/59-follow-me-delphi-1/file

  27. Delphi - Buffalo Architecture and History, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://buffaloah.com/a/virtual/greece/delph/sanct/index.html

  28. odysseus.culture.gr, accessed on May 1, 2025, http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/2/eh251.jsp?obj_id=4932#:~:text=The%20first%20stone%2Dbuilt%20theatre,by%20Eumenes%20II%20of%20Pergamon.

  29. Theatre of Delphi, Delphi, Greece: History, Pictures and Useful Info - Vision, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.visionpubl.com/en/cities/delphi/the-theatre-of-delphi/

  30. Ancient theatre at Delphi, Greece, amongst jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery. - Reddit, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/travel/comments/26adu2/ancient_theatre_at_delphi_greece_amongst/

  31. DH.056 Ancient Theater of Delphi - Baly Gallery, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://baly.kenyon.edu/slides/112056

  32. The Ancient Oracle of Delphi, Greece - GreekReporter.com, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://greekreporter.com/2024/08/22/ancient-greek-oracle-delphi/

  33. diazoma.gr, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://diazoma.gr/en/theaters/ancient-theatre-of-delphi/#:~:text=The%20ancient%20theatre%20of%20Delphi,contests%20of%20the%20Pythian%20Games.

  34. Pythian Games | Olympic, Athletic & Musical - Britannica, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.britannica.com/sports/Pythian-Games

  35. An Echo of Delphi: The Pythian Games Ancient and Modern - Rackcdn.com, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://1df116ccf7e76f4fadc6-db61b658f2565d5f24ddeaaa20b9f7d5.ssl.cf5.rackcdn.com/w_12_Echo_Delphi.PDF

  36. Pythian Games - Wikipedia, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pythian_Games

  37. Pythian games - Ancient Olympics, accessed on May 1, 2025, http://ancientolympics.arts.kuleuven.be/eng/tb002en.html

  38. Delphi - Oracle, Greece & Temple - History.com, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.history.com/articles/delphi

  39. Delphi Archaeological Site | Home of the Oracle of Delphi, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.delphi-tours.com/about-delphi/

  40. Ancient Theatre of Delphi, Greece | Obelisk Art History, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.arthistoryproject.com/timeline/the-ancient-world/greece/the-ancient-theatre-of-delphi/

  41. Acoustical aspects of the development of Greek theaters in the 4th century B.C.E. - AIP Publishing, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://pubs.aip.org/asa/jasa/article/157/3/2042/3340504/Acoustical-aspects-of-the-development-of-Greek

  42. EPIDAURUS ANCIENT THEATRE, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.atilim.edu.tr/files/arastirma_lab/yapi-akustik/acoustic%20ancient%20theatre%28final%29%20%281%29.pdf

  43. The Science Behind the Incredible Acoustics of Ancient Amphitheaters, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://auralex.com/blog/the-science-behind-the-incredible-acoustics-of-ancient-amphitheaters/

  44. The Contribution of the Stage Design to the Acoustics of Ancient Greek Theatres - MDPI, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.mdpi.com/2624-599X/1/1/18

  45. (PDF) Acoustical measurements in ancient Roman theatres - ResearchGate, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/253388294_Acoustical_measurements_in_ancient_Roman_theatres

  46. Ancient theatres measured. Left: Delphi; Right: Taormina. - ResearchGate, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Ancient-theatres-measured-Left-Delphi-Right-Taormina_fig2_239824869

  47. (PDF) Acoustical measurements in ancient Greek and Roman theatres - ResearchGate, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/239824869_Acoustical_measurements_in_ancient_Greek_and_Roman_theatres

  48. The Ruins of Ancient Delphi and a Culture Centred on Religion - Euscentia, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://euscentia.com/ruins-ancient-delphi-sanctuary-culture-religion/

  49. Physical Layout of the Sanctuary | Pan-Hellenic Delphi - WordPress.com, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://panhellenicdelphi.wordpress.com/2014/11/05/physical-layout/

  50. Musical contests - Ancient Olympics, accessed on May 1, 2025, http://ancientolympics.arts.kuleuven.be/eng/TC015EN.html

  51. Cultural trips from Kamena Vourla: Festival of Ancient Theatre of Delphi 2025 - Hotel Sissy, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://hotelsissy.com/cultural-trips-from-kamena-vourla/

  52. Archaeology and the Ancient Greek Pythian Games at Delphi, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://historyandarchaeologyonline.com/archaeology-and-the-ancient-greek-pythian-games-at-delphi/

  53. Delphi, the navel of the ancient world - Natania Travel, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://nataniatravel.com/en/delphi-the-navel-of-the-ancient-world/

  54. Local involvement in modern Greek revivals of ancient theatres: Delphi and Epidaurus in the inter-war period - Cambridge University Press & Assessment, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/byzantine-and-modern-greek-studies/article/local-involvement-in-modern-greek-revivals-of-ancient-theatres-delphi-and-epidaurus-in-the-interwar-period/0DB94401F50CF5E9959D32FF87F45132

  55. Delphi4Delphi: first results of the digital archaeology initiative for ancient Delphi, Greece, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://core-cms.cambridgecore.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/3C6F779833335F504B972DF9FDCA3316/S0003598X16001873a.pdf/delphi4delphi_first_results_of_the_digital_archaeology_initiative_for_ancient_delphi_greece.pdf

  56. Peabody Program Breaking New Ground in Archaeology, accessed on May 1, 2025, https://peabody.yale.edu/news/yapp-italy-breaking-new-ground