Lycabettus Theater in Athens Reopens on Friday After 15 Years

The iconic Lycabettus open-air theater in Athens reopens on Friday after undergoing a comprehensive restoration. With a history spanning fifteen years of closure, the theater is emerging once again on the cultural stage.

The first concert will take place on September 15th. One of the greatest Greek composers of popular music, Stavros Xarchakos, will perform for the audience.

History of Lycabettus Theater

The theater was built in 1965 by architect Takis Zenetos. It holds a special place in the cultural and historical heritage of the city, as it hosted various Greek and international musical performances until it was closed due to security reasons.

Lycabettus Theater, Athens, Greece pic.twitter.com/VvIH9sCJYV

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In 2021, the Municipality of Athens announced a €1.5 million redevelopment program that included refurbishment and reopening of the theater, maintenance of trails and footpaths on the hill, lighting, and flood protection.

Iconic Lycabettus

Lycabettus Hill lies in the very heart of Athens, offering a peaceful oasis in the center of a vibrant city.

At 277 meters (908 feet) above sea level, its summit is the highest point in Central Athens.

Its summit grants breathtaking views, stretching from the Athenian Riviera along the Saronic Gulf to the city’s surrounding mountains.

The ascent, starting near the chic area of Kolonaki, offers an easy hike or funicular option for those seeking convenience. The lush trail, adorned with fruit-bearing cacti, leads to the summit, where a panoramic marvel awaits.

Stunning landmarks, such as the Acropolis and Parthenon, adorn the skyline. Nearby, a restaurant boasts cityscape views for dining or sipping Greek coffee.

Lycabettus is an evening hotspot in summer, casting warm hues across the city. From its mythical origins to its current allure, the hill remains an Athenian treasure, charming its visitors with its unique atmosphere.

Open-air cinemas in Greece

The cherished tradition of open-air movie theaters, known as “summer theaters” in Greece, graces the country’s landscape. With over sixty such theaters across Attica, downtown Athens harbors numerous historic venues.

For Greeks and many visitors, this is a unique enchanting experience that combines the enjoyment of a performance with breathtaking views of famous historical sites or the charm of small, cozy, open-air halls.

Every area in Greece has an open-air cinema. Some as ancient as the history of theater offer views of the Acropolis from rooftops, while newer sites are lined with water chimed by the rhythm of sailing masts or immersed in flowering gardens.

These theaters create an immersive atmosphere, often linking the best traditions of the past with the innovations of the present for a true Greek experience.