Athens’ storied Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the iconic open-air theater beneath the Acropolis, has closed its gates for at least three years as a crucial preservation project begins.
The closure follows the conclusion of the 2025 Athens Festival season in October.
The essential maintenance is overseen by the Directorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities, under the Greek Ministry of Culture.
The project aims to stabilize the structure, repair centuries of wear to the ancient stone, and implement modern conservation measures to protect the landmark from further deterioration.
Greek Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni confirmed the three-year timeline, noting the duration may be extended based on archaeological findings during the work.
Minister Mendoni emphasized the necessity of the project to safeguard the monument's heritage.
While the Herodeion is temporarily silent, Ms. Mendoni and the Ministry are coordinating alternative venues to ensure the city’s vibrant arts scene continues uninterrupted.
The restoration promises an enhanced experience when the Herodeion reopens to the public.