On the southern slope of the Acropolis is the ancient stone theatre, known as the Odeon of Herod Atticus (Herodion). It was built in 161 ad by the Athenian magnate Geroda Attic in honor of his late wife Regilla.

Originally it was an amphitheatre, with steep slope and a three-story stone front wall, the roof was made of expensive wood of Lebanon cedar. The building is very well preserved to our days, with the exception of the statues in the niches and colored marble facing. The Odeon was used for musical concerts and could accommodate 5,000 spectators. In 1950 there was a reconstruction of the theatre, used for lining white inteligance marble. Odeon today and impresses with its excellent acoustics.

Odeon of Herod Atticus - the venue of the Athens festival, which is held annually from may to October. On this stage was made by a huge number of famous Greek and international celebrities such as Maria Callas, Maurice Bejart, Mikis Theodorakis, Placido Domingo, the Bolshoi ballet, Manos Hatzidakis, Giorgos Dalaras, Marinella and many other famous artists and organizations. In 1973 it was held Miss universe contest. In may 1996, sting appeared on the scene with his new album "Mercury Falling". And in 2000, the Odeon of Herod Atticus was hosted by the legendary Elton John. In September 2010, the famous Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli performed here with a charity concert aimed to raise funds for cancer research. The concert was attended by acting Prime Minister George Papandreou and the Archbishop of Athens, ieronymos.

Odeon of Herod Atticus is not only a historical monument, but also the main functioning scene of Athens. So you can get there only during concerts and performances, by purchasing a ticket. But to admire the beautiful ancient buildings and the top of the Acropolis.