Laodicea’s ancient theaters served distinct audiences, new findings reveal

Laodicea, an ancient city in southwestern Türkiye, has long been known for its remarkable historical heritage, including its ancient theaters. New findings, based on inscriptions discovered in the area, have shed light on the distinct functions of the city’s two major theaters: the Western Theater and the Northern Theater.

These revelations offer a fascinating glimpse into the social dynamics of the city 2,200 years ago.

Western Theater: Venue for public

The Western Theater of Laodicea, constructed in the second century B.C. and capable of holding 15,000 spectators, has been undergoing extensive restoration efforts. After an earthquake in the third century A.D., it was partially restored and continued to serve as a venue for public gatherings until the seventh century A.D.

A recent excavation, led by Professor Celal Simsek, the head of Laodicea excavations, revealed the significant role this theater played in the cultural life of the city. The inscriptions found here indicate that it was not only a place for theatrical performances but also a public space for free events sponsored by the state.

Northern Theater: Venue for private events

As Laodicea’s population grew, the Western Theater was no longer able to accommodate the increasing number of spectators. In response, the Northern Theater was built in the second century A.D., entirely out of marble.

Unlike the Western Theater, this venue catered more to the elite, hosting paid events and performances for wealthy individuals. Inscriptions confirm that this theater was primarily used by businessmen, providing a venue for more exclusive, ticketed performances.

Restoration and ongoing excavations in Laodicea

Professor Simsek, who has been leading the excavations at Laodicea with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Denizli Metropolitan Municipality, and the Southern Aegean Development Agency, discussed the progress of the restoration efforts. The team has completed most of the restoration work at the Western Theater, including uncovering nearly intact seating steps that have allowed the theater to once again host audiences after 1,600 years.

“We have focused our efforts on the restoration of the seating and stage areas, especially the vaulted sections and the columns in the upper levels,” said Professor Simsek. “Inscriptions at the site have provided valuable information about the purposes of both theaters.”

Cultural legacy revived

The Western Theater, now fully restored according to international standards, reopened in 2022 for public events. “Thousands of years ago, this was a theater for the public, and today it continues to serve as a venue for public activities,” Professor Simsek added.

The ongoing excavations in Laodicea are part of a broader effort to preserve the city’s rich archaeological heritage, including the restoration of other key structures such as the Southern Agora and the city’s stadium. Through these efforts, Laodicea is set to become a key cultural and historical hub, offering visitors a deeper understanding of its ancient significance.

Laodicea’s two theaters, with their distinct purposes, offer a fascinating window into the social and cultural life of the ancient city. The findings from the excavations and inscriptions provide a clearer picture of the complex dynamics between public and private life in this ancient urban center, continuing to captivate scholars and visitors alike.