There are so many ancient Roman ruins in Plovdiv, it is a history lovers delight. One such place that cannot be missed on a visit to the city, is the beautiful Roman theatre of Philippopolis located in Old Town.
Brief History
This magnificent theatre was built during the 1st century AD and accommodated 5,000 – 7,000 individuals. Used predominately for gladiator type games, it also may have been used to hold legislative assemblies.
The theatre was good standing until it was damaged by Attila the Hun in the 5th century.
Today it is one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world.
Discovery
You won’t believe this, but the theatre was only discovered in the 1970’s when a landslide removed part of the hillside! Before then, it was completely buried. Since that date, archaeologists have been in and reinforced the three levels behind the stage to preserve what they can.
Inscriptions
One of my very favourite things to discover in this site, were the inscriptions on the rows. Seats were inscribed for honorary spectators, friends of the Emperor and magistrates. I was able to locate these markings on either end of the two sides.
Still in Use
Amazingly this lovely space is still used today! All three times I have climbed up the hill to see it, the main area near the stage at the bottom has been filled with chairs, an orchestra pit or stage equipment.
Operas and concerts are regularly scheduled here during the summer months.
Just outside the entry gate, is a lovely cafe where one can sit, enjoy an Aperol spritz or glass of white wine, and wile away an hour of the afternoon.
The cost to enter this ancient site during the day is only 5 LEV, however it is part of the combined ticket. So if you wish to pay 15 LEV ($11 CAD) you will have access to 5 sites, many of which are the incredible houses, museums and galleries in Old Town Plovdiv.
