Teatro Grande

What an experience! The fact that they uncovered this city after 1700 years and then it took almost 300 years of labor for it to be admired by tourists is unbelievable. We'll worth seeing it!!

Although it is actually the only theatre in Pompeii it was given this name to distinguish it from the nearby Odeion, which is much smaller and was used for different purposes. It was built in the 2nd century B.C. more or less according to traditional Greek canons in so far as the tiered seating makes use of a natural slope and the orchestra is arranged in a horse-shoe shape. It was extended and restored during the reign of Augustus at the personal expense of the Holconius brothers, who were rich Pompeian vine growers. An inscription tells us that the entire seating area had been resurfaced in marble, but this was removed and carried off after the destruction of the town. The upper circle was added to increase the seating capacity and the two side boxes built above the entrances to the orchestra were reserved for the guests of honour. In this way the theatre of Pompeii could accommodate 5,000 people seated in three different areas which were separated by corridors. The first (called the ima Cavea) was situated in the orchestra itself and had four rows of seats which were reserved for the decurions, while the first rows of the media Cavea were for the representatives of the corporations: one of these was reserved for the eldest of the Holconius brothers and was identified by an inscription in bronze letters.The remaining places right up to the top part (summa Cavea) were designated for the ordinary townspeople. The final tier had stone rings fitted into the walls which were used to support the poles which held the large canopy covering the theatre to protect the audience from the sun.The stone stage was rebuilt after the earthquake of 62 A.D. in imitation of the facade of an important building decorated with columns, niches and statues. To the rear was a small and unusual-shaped dressing room running the whole width of the stage area, which could be reached by three doors leading directly from the stage. A further three doors lead out onto a large courtyard.

Absolutely amazing. A breathtaking place and the first ancient theater I've been to where people could actually sit in seats.

Visiting the ruins of Pompeii is less a tourist attraction and more a profound historical experience. It is unlike any other archaeological site in the world, offering an unparalleled look at the daily life of a Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The sheer scale of the city is staggering. You can wander for hours through ancient streets, still marked by chariot ruts, and step inside bakeries, bathhouses, and even lavish villas like the House of the Vettii. Seeing the original mosaics, frescoes, and the detailed architecture brings history to life in a way textbooks simply cannot. The path is often uneven, but the reward is worth the effort. The most moving part of the visit is seeing the plaster casts of the victims—a tragic, powerful reminder of the disaster. Standing on the very spot where people lived, worked, and ultimately perished, with Vesuvius looming dramatically in the background, creates a deep sense of connection to the past. This is an essential stop for anyone interested in history or archaeology. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water!

The theater is so beautiful and well preserved must visit when you go to Pompeii

Is there a 6star rating! Fantastic day out. Got a tour for the morning then wandered by ourselves all afternoon. Could do with a few more information displays, but info available on line. Cafes a little busy but decently priced.

Near hare is restaurant and in this place people can eat and drink. Why?

Wow! I sat in this place and imagined all that’s happened in the world since this place was built. Also imagined the process of building it. Those men working so hard who are now long gone. And the moment the volcano erupted. Amazing historical site!