Epidaurus

A small city of giants

Epidaurus was a small city in ancient Greece.

But this is just a tiny piece of the history of the place.

 

History walkthrough

Ancient Epidaurus, is world-renowned for its impressive ancient theatre with amazing acoustics (4th century B.C.) and the Sanctuary of Asclepius, a leading healing center of antiquity (not the only one in Greece, but unquestionably the most famous). It is a top tourist destination because it blends beaches with natural beauty, history, and culture.

Due to their outstanding architecture and significance in the growth and dissemination of healing sanctuaries and cults throughout the ancient Greek and Roman worlds, the Sanctuary of Asclepius and ancient theatre were added to the UNESCOWorld Heritage List in 1988.

Is all that we see or seem
But a dream within a dream?
Edgar Allan Poe
— "Oedipus" by Yannis Houvardas

Once in a lifetime experience

You have to be there

Nowadays, I would suggest to anyone to visit the ancient theatre during the Athens Epidaurus Festival and watch a play; any play. The vibes and feelings you get when sitting in the same seats where our ancestors sat and watch a theatrical play in the same stage is an undescribable experience.

 
 

Ancient theatre at the Asklepieion of Epidaurus

The Asclepieion of Epidaurus became the most renowned of all the Asclepieia in ancient Greece, due to the many serious cases that were cured there. People came there from all over Greece, as well as from the Mediterranean basin, seeking divine mercy.

The complex was very large and included guesthouses, a gymnasium, a stadium, and the famous Theater, for the entertainment of the people.

The magnificent natural environment in which it was built also appears to have played a significant role in the treatment of patients. The tranquility of nature, the gentle and clear lines of the surrounding mountains, the lush vegetation, and the abundant springs had a tremendous effect, particularly on patients with mental illnesses, resulting in improved health with the help of their priests.

Swimming and Dining in Epidaurus

In addition to the archaeological site, it’s worth taking a swim in modern town of Epidaurus (above the ancient ruins of a roman villa), a meal at one of the area’s charming taverns, and perhaps another theatre play at the small theater of Epidaurus.

You can see more in the video below.


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Nick Boutsikos

My name is Nick (aka Nidibou) and I am a Travel, Nature and People photographer, based in Athens, Greece.

http://www.nidibou.com
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