Travels in Italy--Taormina (Part 3 of 4)

Our tramp around Taormina continues.     

Taormina is home to an amazing Greek theater.  Perched atop one of the town's highest hills, the theater is well preserved and provides amazing views of the surrounding area.  After Syracuse, Taormina's Greek theater is considered the largest in Italy and North Africa.  Today, it can hold about 4,500 people. 

The theater was initially built probably in the 3rd century B.C.  Like most ancient Greek theaters, the theater in Taormina was carved into a rocky hillside.  During the Greek era, Greek tragedies were likely performed there. 

Over the centuries, the theater was adapted by the Romans and most of what is visible today is from the Roman era.  The main clue is the Romans used bricks extensively, while the Greeks didn't.  During the Roman era, gladiator contests were likely performed there.   

A panoramic view of the theater from the stage

A view of the stage from an upper row of the theater.  The G7 leaders attended a musical performance in the theater. 

The theater's modern stage.  The stage was set for a sold out performance of Il Volo, three young Italian tenors who some believe are the next Three Tenors.  (As if!)

Because of its location, the views from the theater are incredible. 

In the photo below, the view from the Greek theater includes the helicopter landing pads built for the G7 leaders (indicated by the red arrow).  Our guide explained that decoy helicopters and smoke were used to protect the leaders. 

Next Up: Hotels in Taormina