Ancient Roman theatre

Welcome to the ruins of the Ancient Roman Theatre of Lisbon, or Olisipo, as it was known when these stones were first laid in the 1st century BC. As we stand on this hillside in the Alfama district, we are literally standing on…

Standing here in what remains of the seating area, known as the 'cavea,' we can understand the social stratification of Roman society. In the Roman world, where you sat in the theater was a direct reflection of your status in the…

The semi-circular floor space directly in front of the stage is the orchestra. In Greek theater, this was the primary performance space for the chorus, but in the Roman adaptation, the orchestra took on a different function. …

Now, turn your attention to the area where the stage once stood. Behind the performing platform, there would have been a massive, multi-story structure known as the 'scenae frons.' This was a permanent architectural backdrop,…

One of the most critical aspects of studying a Roman theater is the analysis of the epigraphic and sculptural remains found on-site. During the excavations of the Lisbon theater, archaeologists uncovered dozens of inscriptions…

As we conclude our walk through the ruins, let us consider how the theater fits into the broader urban planning of Roman Olisipo. Like all Roman cities, the layout was designed with a clear sense of purpose. …

Our visit to the Ancient Roman Theatre of Lisbon comes to an end here, among the silent stones of Olisipo. We have explored the social heights of the cavea, the prestigious orchestra, and the vanished majesty of the scenae frons. …