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Archaeological site · Taormina, Sicília
Teatro Antico di Taormina
Greco‑Roman theater high above Taormina, with Etna and the Ionian Sea in the background. It is the second largest ancient theater in Sicily and still hosts performances in summer.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Teatro Antico di Taormina
The Teatro Antico was built by the Greeks, probably in the 3rd century BC, and almost everything seen today is from the Roman reconstruction of the 2nd century AD. The seating, carved into the hillside, measures about 109 metres in diameter: among Sicily's ancient theaters only that of Syracuse is larger.
In Roman times the theater was also adapted for gladiator fights. The brick scaenae frons, with columns and niches, frames the view that made the place famous: the Ionian coast, the bay of Naxos and, on clear days, the cone of Etna.
In the 18th and 19th centuries the theater became a must‑see stop for travelers on the so‑called Grand Tour. Goethe passed through in 1787 and described the landscape seen from the seating.
Today the theater is part of the Parco Archeologico Naxos Taormina and, in summer, hosts concerts, operas and film festivals. On performance days visiting hours may be reduced, and on some summer dates there are nighttime openings.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Between 1 and 1h30.
Best time
At opening time in the morning, when there are fewer people and the light on Etna is good. In summer, check the dates for nighttime openings and performances, which change the visiting hours.
How to get there
On foot from Corso Umberto, via Via Teatro Greco, about 5 minutes from Piazza IX Aprile.
Tip
Buy tickets in advance in high season. Bring a hat and water: the seating has little shade. To see Etna, prefer clear mornings.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Teatro Antico di Taormina
Is the theatre Greek or Roman?
It was founded by the Greeks, probably in the 3rd century BC, but what you see today is mostly the Roman reconstruction from the 2nd century AD.
Can you watch performances at the theater?
Yes. In summer the theater hosts concerts, operas and festivals. On those days visiting hours may change.
What is the best time to visit?
At opening in the morning, when there are fewer people and the light on Etna and the sea is good.
Is the theater accessible?
Access includes ramps and uneven paths, and the seating is steep. People with reduced mobility should check with the archaeological park in advance.