Teatro antico di Segesta

The ancient theatre of Segesta is a Hellenistic structure carved into the north-eastern slope of Monte Barbaro, overlooking the surrounding valleys.

Why it matters

The theatre is one of the principal public buildings of ancient Segesta and forms part of the city's acropolis complex. Its placement and construction preserve evidence of the city's Hellenistic and Roman phases.

What to notice

The cavea rests partly against the living rock and faces northeast toward the valleys and distant sea. Other remains on the acropolis include the agora, bouleuterion, a later Muslim settlement, a Norman-Swabian castle and a church founded in 1442.

Context and history

The theatre is generally dated to the mid-second century BCE. It was modified during the Roman period and later became part of a changing acropolis landscape that included Muslim, Norman and medieval occupation. Nineteenth-century restoration altered portions of the seating.