Exploring the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid Macedonia

On our Macedonia travels, the kids and I stayed in Ohrid for over a fortnight. We spent our days either swimming in Lake Ohrid or exploring. It was during one of our explorations that we discovered the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid.

The Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, a hidden gem buried for centuries, has emerged from its ancient slumber to become a captivating venue for various artistic performances. The story of its preservation and rediscovery is as intriguing as the theatre itself.

Ohrid’s Ancient Theatre

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The Rediscovery of Ohrid’s Ancient Theatre

In the early 20th century, Russian art historian Nikodim P. Kondakov proposed that an exquisite Hellenistic theatre once graced the ancient city of Lychnidos, known as Ohrid today. It was not until 1935, when archaeological excavations commenced, that fragments of a potential theatre were discovered, confirming Kondakov’s hypothesis.

Over the years, the excavations gradually revealed the splendour of the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid. By 1984, the entrances, the grand structure, the orchestra, honorary seats, the arena, and nine rows of seating were brought to light. By 2000, the theatre was entirely exposed, displaying its grandeur in near-perfect condition. It became apparent that this was not a Roman theatre, but a Greek one, believed to have been constructed in the 3rd century BC and intentionally buried. The question remained: why?

Why was the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid Buried?

Unveiling the theatre’s history may shed light on its mysterious burial. During the Roman era, the theatre was repurposed for gladiatorial fights and the public execution of Christians, much to the dismay of the local population.

It is believed that the residents’ distaste for these brutal events led to the abandonment and burial of the theatre after the Roman Empire fell in the 4th century, or at the beginning of the 5th century AD. However, this act inadvertently resulted in its impeccable preservation throughout the ages. The Ancient Theatre of Ohrid resurfaced as a magnificent testament to ancient times, free from the echoes of gladiators and the roar of lions.

The Ancient Theatre of Ohrid Today

From the 1980s onwards, the theatre’s revival began. Transformed into a lively cultural hub, it now serves as a prestigious venue for plays, concerts, operas, and ballet performances.

The theatre has also become an integral part of the annual Ohrid Summer Festival.

We loved exploring the theatre, walking along the seating area and looking out across Lake Ohrid. It is easy to see how the theatre’s acoustics and ambience draw in audiences when there’s a live show on stage.