Often overshadowed by their more famous circular counterparts in Greece, square theaters like the one found in ancient Calydon provide a fascinating glimpse into theatrical traditions of the time.
Calydon, situated in the region of Aetolia in ancient Greece, boasted one of the most significant theaters of its era. Located near Evinochori in Aetolia-Acarnania, overlooking the Gulf of Corinth, this theater underwent several phases of construction throughout its history.
The structure of the theater is a testament to its evolving design. The cavea, or seating area, consists of 26 rows of seats arranged in a rectangular pattern around the orchestra. Notably, the lower 9 rows date back to the classical period, while the upper portion reflects additions made during the Hellenistic era. This layered construction highlights the theater’s adaptation over time to accommodate growing audiences and changing architectural styles.
Although the stage itself has not been fully excavated, significant discoveries have been made around it.
A proscenium wall, adorned with six Ionic columns and the remnants of their capitals, has been unearthed. In front of this wall, archaeologists found a drainage system linked to a square water reservoir, suggesting sophisticated engineering to manage water during performances. Evidence such as tiles scattered around the stage perimeter indicates the presence of a roof, enhancing the theater’s functionality and ambiance.
The orchestra, nearly square in shape with approximate dimensions of 16 meters by 14 meters, offers insights into the theater’s original purpose. Some speculate that its square layout may have been influenced by its early use in mysterious cult rituals, hinting at the multifaceted roles these ancient theaters played in both entertainment and religious ceremonies.
Excavations of the Calydon theater began in the 1960s during the construction of the Antirrio-Ioannina National Road, uncovering its ruins on the eastern slope of the hill of Lafri or Lafriaio, near the sanctuary of Artemis Lafria and Apollo Lafrio. Recent excavations, starting in 2001 and continuing through 2003, and then again from 2011 to 2013, have provided detailed insights into its layout and dimensions, enriching our understanding of ancient Greek theatrical architecture and its cultural significance.
This expanded description not only highlights the architectural features and historical context of the ancient Calydon theater but also underscores its importance in the broader landscape of ancient Greek culture and heritage.
Calydon in Greek mythology and its history
According to Greek mythology, Calydon was founded by Aetolus in the land of the Curetes, and was called Calydon after his son. Calydon and the neighboring town of Pleuron are said by Strabo to have once been the “ornament” of Greece, but by his time (late 1st century BC) they had sunk into insignificance.
It is frequently mentioned in the Iliad by Homer, who celebrates the fertility of the plain of “lovely” Calydon.
In the earliest times, the inhabitants of Calydon appear to have been engaged in incessant hostilities with the Curetes, who continued to reside in their ancient capital, Pleuron, and who endeavored to expel the invaders from their country. A vivid account of one of the battles between the Curetes and Calydonians is given in an episode of the Iliad.
The heroes of Calydon are among the most celebrated of the heroic age. It was the residence of Oeneus, father of Tydeus and Meleager, and grandfather of Diomedes.
Calydon is not often mentioned in the historical period. In 391 BC it was recorded as being in the possession of the Achaeans, but the means of possession are unclear; however, it is better documented that Naupactus was given to the Achaeans at the close of the Peloponnesian War, and it was probably the Achaeans settled at Naupactus who gained possession of the town.
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