Watching an ancient play at the theatre of Epidaurus is an unforgettable experience. However, the area has a lot more to offer and is ideal for a two-day escape.
It was originally built to host music and dramatic games as part of the worship of Asclepius.
Later on, plays were performed there, since it was believed that watching drama benefited the audience.
A performance at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world, today, 2.500 years later, still has the same impact.
Very close to Athens, Epidaurus is a great destination for a two-day getaway filled with theatre, swimming and good food.
Saturday
10:00
It won’t take more than two hours to reach Palaia Epidaurus (Old Epidaurus) from Athens. Don’t stop at the village and go straight to Gialasi beach that is one of the largest beaches in the area, with sand, white pebbles and clear waters.
On the beach you can get coffee and food. On its left is the beach Gliati (also known as Kalimnos) with ruins of the ancient town scattered on its seabed. A dive with a mask over the ancient remains is one of the weekends highlights.
14:00
A bit further back from Gialasi you’ll find the stone building of Kalogerikon restaurant and will be seated in the garden, surrounded by orange trees.
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Apart from the interesting twists to traditional dishes like imam (traditional stuffed aubergine stew) with the caramelized onions, the baked octopus with wine sauce and the organic chicken with hilopites (a Greek pasta made with egg), they also serve local meat.
The pork steak and the beef rib-eye steak are both really good choices.Another plus is the great selection of Greek wines and the local bread.
17:00
For a view that goes as far as Piraeus, you need to go to the village Koliaki, around 8 kilometres away from Palaia Epidaurus. At the café Agnanti tou Saronikou the view will enchant you and if the atmosphere is clear you’ll be able to see the islands of Agistri and Aegina. They serve fresh homemade desserts.
20:00
You can’t miss (even if it won’t be your first time) the experience of a performance at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus which is 16 kilometres away from Palaia Epidaurus.
It was built in the 4th century BC, around 2.500 years ago, by architect and sculptor Polykleitos and it remains unbeatable in acoustics and beauty.
Following the trail that leads to the stone seats, you’ll find yourself with foreign visitors, families, actors and high society.
Each performance turns into a ritual and the ancient theatre imposes silence with its grandeur.
If you’re more into a more relaxed atmosphere and a bit more innovative performances, the Athens & Epidaurus Festival also puts on various shows in the Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus that is located in Palaia Epidaurus.
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