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This theatre is part of the archaeological site of Aptera, near present-day Chania, in western Crete. The ancient coastal city-state was once one of Crete’s most important commercial centres, at its peak in the Hellenistic period (late 4th-3rd centuries BC). The theatre was built near the south east gate of the city in the Early Hellenistic period, and underwent significant alterations during the Roman period, mostly in the 1st century AD. Constructed from local limestone, the theatre follows a typical Hellenistic design, with a cavea, orchestra, and stage. A well-preserved paved road on the eastern side of the site, dating to the Hellenistic era as well, provided access to the theatre and other nearby public buildings.
The theatre’s location was noted by travellers in the 19th century, but much of the site was destroyed in the 20th century, first by the creation of a limekiln in its centre, and later by the removal of stones for use in the construction of the port of Souda. In 2008, a programme of systematic excavation, conservation, and restoration began at the site, which included fully exposing the structure, removing vegetation, demolishing the limekiln, and reinforcing the theatre’s surviving architecture. The site was also carefully documented, new signage created, and the surrounding area reconfigured to create walkways and rest points for visitors. Once this work was complete, the theatre was used to stage several performances, bringing this ancient space back to life once more.
Text: Amy Brunskill / Image: Adam Stanford
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