Once we arrived to Nafplion, we decided to go visit Asclepieion of Epidaurus which is famous for it’s Amphitheatre, which was the biggest in ancient Greece and nowadays the best preserved, and Asclepius temple – the healing place. Not everything went according to the plan. As they say the mortals plan and the greek gods are laughing.
We arrived to Asclepieion of Epidaurus around 12:30 and we stopped to buy some cigarettes for my brother before that. To our surprise all of them were at € 0.00 cost on display, but actually they do cost money, cheaper than in UK though!

So once we parked a car, which was easy, as there was plenty of space, we saw a firefighters truck, as it has been hot very hot for a week and they were prepared for unexpected.

We walked all the path to Epidaurus Amphitheatre in this scorching 40°C heat just to find that it was closed during the day, due to he extreme temperatures, like most of archaeological sites in entire Greece, including Acropolis. So we had to drive back to Nafplion and come back later in the day, which was 1h of drive wasted and another 30min to come back. My brother was not very eager to drive me back there (as it was quite hot in the car as well due to poor air conditioning), but luckily he changed his mind.


Propylaea at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus

Propylaea is a monumental gateway that forms the entrance to the Asclepieion of Epidaurus, a sanctuary dedicated to the healing god Asclepius, located in the ancient city of Epidaurus in Greece.
The Propylaea was built around the 4th century BCE and is considered one of the finest examples of classical Greek architecture. It was designed by the architect Mnesicles, who is also known for his work on the Propylaea of the Acropolis in Athens.
The Propylaea at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus consists of a central building with two wings, creating a grand entrance to the sanctuary. It is built on an elevated platform and consists of a row of Doric columns on the façade. The central building has a porch with six columns in the front and three on each side. The wings have a total of twenty-six columns.
The purpose of the Propylaea was not only to serve as an entrance but also to create an impressive and ceremonial atmosphere for visitors. It was an important part of the overall design and layout of the sanctuary, which was intended to promote healing and well-being.

Upon exiting the Propylaea, one encounters a well situated on the right side of the pathway. This well, which originated in the late 6th or early 5th century BC, remained in use until the late antiquity period. Over the course of time, the surrounding ground level gradually increased, leading to the addition of an improvised wellhead during Roman times. Recent excavations have revealed that pilgrims utilized the water from this well for cleansing purposes, engaging in a ritual that resulted in numerous broken pottery fragments scattered in the vicinity.
Stadium at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus (Στάδιο Ασκληπιείου Επιδαύρου)
The Stadium at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus is an ancient Greek stadium located near the ancient healing sanctuary of Epidaurus, in the Peloponnese region of Greece. The stadium was built in the 5th century BC and was used primarily for athletic competitions and religious festivals.
The Asclepieion of Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of healing, Asclepius, and was renowned in ancient Greece for its healing practices and medicinal treatments. The stadium was an integral part of the sanctuary complex and served as a venue for various athletic events and games.
The stadium at Epidaurus was designed in a horseshoe shape, with a running track and grassy field in the center. It had seating capacity for around 14,000 spectators, which was quite impressive for its time. The stadium also had several entrances and rows of stone benches for spectators to sit on.
One of the most notable features of the stadium is its excellent acoustics. The design of the stadium allows for perfect sound transmission, enabling even the smallest whisper to be heard by all spectators. This unique feature is attributed to the use of limestone in the construction of the stadium.
The athletic events held at the stadium included foot races, long jump, and wrestling, among others. These games were an essential part of religious festivals dedicated to Asclepius, and athletes from all over Greece would come to compete in these competitions. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Greek Baths (Ελληνικά Λουτρά Ασκληπιείου Επιδαύρου)
The Asclepieion of Epidaurus in ancient Greece was a renowned healing centre dedicated to the god of health and medicine, Asclepius. The site included a variety of facilities and treatments, including Greek baths.

The earliest evidence of Greek baths at the Asclepieion dates back to the 6th century BCE. These early baths were simple structures that consisted of small rooms with pools or basins for bathing. The water used in these baths was often heated and infused with herbs for therapeutic purposes.
During the 4th century BCE, the baths at the Asclepieion underwent significant expansion and improvement. The complex was enlarged to accommodate a larger number of patients, and more elaborate bathhouses were constructed. These new baths featured multiple rooms for different types of bathing experiences, including hot baths, cold baths, and steam baths.
The design of the Greek baths at the Asclepieion was influenced by both Greek and Roman architectural styles. The buildings were typically constructed with stone or marble, and they were adorned with decorative elements such as columns, mosaics, and statues.
The baths were an integral part of the healing process at the Asclepieion. Patients would come to the baths before or after receiving their treatments, as bathing was believed to have therapeutic benefits. The warm water and steam were thought to relax the body, relieve pain, and promote overall well-being. Additionally, the baths provided an opportunity for social interaction and relaxation, which was believed to be beneficial for patients’ mental and emotional health.
The baths at the Asclepieion continued to be used well into the Roman period, with further renovations and additions made over time. However, with the decline of the Roman Empire in the 4th century CE, the popularity of the Asclepieion and its baths waned. The site fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned.
Temple of Asclepius at Epidaurus (Ναός Ασκληπιού Επιδαύρου)

The Temple of Asclepius at Epidaurus is an ancient sanctuary located in Epidaurus, Greece. It was built in the 4th century BCE in honour of Asclepius, the Greek god of healing and medicine.
The cult of Asclepius was very popular in Ancient Greece, and people from all over would travel to Epidaurus to seek healing and receive treatment. The temple was part of a larger complex that included bathhouses, dormitories for patients, and a theatre where dramatic performances were held as part of the healing process.
The temple itself was designed by the architect Theodotus and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of classical Greek architecture. It features a Doric colonnade with a pronaos (porch) at the entrance and a naos (inner chamber) with an altar dedicated to Asclepius.
Inside the temple, there were numerous statues and offerings from grateful patients who had been healed. The most famous statue was the chryselephantine statue of Asclepius created by the famous sculptor Thrasymedes.
The Temple of Asclepius at Epidaurus remained an important center for healing and pilgrimage throughout the Hellenistic and Roman periods. It was eventually abandoned in the late 4th century CE when Christianity became the dominant religion in the region.

The serpent is a recurrent symbol in the myths of Asclepius. One story tells of Asclepius taming serpents, which were believed to possess healing properties. These serpents would follow him and assist in his healing practices. The famous Rod of Asclepius, a staff with a serpent coiled around it, became an enduring symbol of medicine and healing, a testament to his legendary connection with these creatures.
The sacred precinct of the Asclepieion in Epidaurus included healing springs reputed to have miraculous powers. Pilgrims seeking cures would bathe in these waters, which were believed to be imbued with the divine essence of Asclepius himself. The legend held that bathing in these waters could cure even the most persistent ailments, reflecting the faith and hope placed in Asclepius’s abilities.
Patients visiting the Temple would often partake in a ritual known as “incubation,” where they would sleep in a special dormitory called the Katagogion, awaiting a divine vision. It was believed that Asclepius would appear in their dreams, offering cures and guidance. These dream visitations were a central part of the healing process and underscored the god’s close, personal connection to his supplicants.

Abaton – Enkoimeterion (Άβατον ή Εγκοιμητήριον Ασκληπιείου)
Abaton – Enkoimeterion is a significant ancient medical structure which was a part of the Sanctuary of Asklepios, the god of healing in Greek mythology. Built in the 4th century BC, the Abaton served as a sleeping sanctuary where patients would come to seek healing and guidance from the god.
The Abaton was a circular building with a diameter of around 22 meters. It had a single entrance and was designed to create a peaceful and calming environment for patients. The interior of the structure consisted of a large central chamber with semi-circular benches along the walls.
Patients would sleep on these benches, which were believed to be sacred and infused with healing powers. It was believed that while the patients were sleeping, Asklepios would visit them in their dreams, providing them with guidance and healing. These dreams, known as “incubation dreams,” were considered essential for the process of healing.




Tholos / Thymele (Θόλος / Θυμέλη)

Tholos, also known as Thymele, is a circular building located at the ancient Asclepieion of Epidaurus. It is one of the most prominent and well-preserved structures in this complex.
The Tholos is situated in the central area of the Asclepieion and is surrounded by a colonnaded courtyard. It was built in the 4th century BC and is believed to have served as a sanctuary or a temple dedicated to the healing god Asclepius.
The structure itself is a circular building with a conical roof that resembles a beehive. It has twenty-six outer Doric columns that create a stunning visual effect. The columns are made of local limestone and are intricately carved with various decorative motifs. The entablature on top of the columns features triglyphs and metopes, which were typical elements of Doric architecture.
Inside the Tholos, there is a small circular room that contains a central altar. This room is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies or as a place for votive offerings to the deity. The altar was likely used for sacrifices and offerings to Asclepius in hopes of receiving healing or divine intervention.
The Tholos is considered an architectural marvel due to its elegant design and its ability to withstand the test of time. It is regarded as one of the finest examples of classical Greek architecture and is often admired for its harmony, proportion, and aesthetic beauty. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Katagogion at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus (Καταγώγιον Ασκληπιείου Επιδαύρου)

The Katagogion at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus was a building where patients stayed overnight to receive healing and treatment in ancient Greece. It was part of a larger complex dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing. The Asclepieion of Epidaurus was one of the most famous healing centres in the ancient world, attracting people from all over Greece and beyond.
The Katagogion, also known as the Abaton, was a crucial part of the healing process. Patients would arrive at the Asclepieion seeking treatment for various ailments and injuries. They would spend the day in the sacred precinct, participating in rituals and prayers to Asclepius.

At nightfall, the patients would be led to the Katagogion, a large building adjacent to the temple. The Katagogion was a dormitory-like structure where patients would spend the night in anticipation of their healing. It was designed to promote rest and relaxation, with simple accommodations such as beds and basic amenities.

During their stay in the Katagogion, patients believed that Asclepius would visit them in their dreams and offer guidance or healing. These dreams, known as incubation, were an important part of the healing process. In their dreams, patients might see Asclepius or his priestly attendants, who would provide instructions on how to obtain their desired cure.
The next morning, patients would awaken and recount their dreams to the priests and doctors at the Asclepieion. Based on these dream reports, the medical professionals would determine the appropriate treatment or therapy for the patient.
Over time, the reputation of the Asclepieion of Epidaurus grew, and it became renowned for its healing abilities. Many notable individuals sought treatment at the complex, including politicians, athletes, and even emperors. The Katagogion played a crucial role in facilitating the healing process and ensuring the comfort of the patients.


Ancient Theatre at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus (Αρχαίο Θέατρο Ασκληπιείου Επιδαύρου)

The ancient theatre at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus is a magnificent example of ancient Greek theatre architecture. It was built in the 4th century BC and is considered one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world.
The Asclepieion of Epidaurus was a sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god of healing, Asclepius. It was a place where people would go to seek healing and treatment for various ailments. The ancient theatre was an important part of this sanctuary, as it was likely used for dramatic performances and religious ceremonies related to the worship of Asclepius, but any specific legends or stories associated with the theatre have not been recorded or passed down.

The design of the theatre is attributed to Polykleitos the Younger, a famous architect of the time. It has a capacity of around 14,000 spectators, making it the largest of its kind in Ancient Greece, and is known for its excellent acoustics. The structure’s design allows for perfect sound distribution, enabling even a whisper from the stage to be heard by everyone in the audience. They say that everyone in the audience would hear the match being ignited. The theatre is built into a natural slope and is surrounded by grassy hillsides, providing a beautiful setting for performances.

During its heyday, the theatre hosted dramatic performances during religious festivals and celebrations. The plays performed here were mainly tragedies, as this genre was believed to have healing powers and could evoke a cathartic emotional response in the audience. Famous playwrights such as Sophocles and Euripides had their works performed at the theatre.

After the decline of the Greek civilisation, the theatre fell into disuse and was eventually buried under centuries of sediment. It was rediscovered in the 19th century and underwent extensive restoration work in the 20th century. The theatre underwent significant restoration and renovation efforts in the 20th century to preserve its architectural integrity and ensure its continued use for performances. Today, the ancient theatre is still used for performances during the annual Epidaurus Festival. It is one of many UNESCO World Heritage sites in Greece.

Archaeological museum of Epidaurus
Archaeological Museum of the Asclepieion of Epidaurus (Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Ασκληπιείου Επιδαύρου)








