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Ancient Theatre of Maroneia: In the mythical land of Polyphemus

Archaeological Site, Monument

Opening hours View Hours
Maroneia, GR Get Directions

The ancient city of Maroneia, the wealthy Thracian city of the Cicones, was visited both by Odysseus and Emperor Hadrian, and – according to local legend – was also home to mythical beings, for it was in a cave here that the Cyclops Polyphemus is said to have lived.

Maroneia grew into a powerful city-state, fortified by walls stretching over 10 kilometers, with its territory perhaps extending as far as the plain of modern Komotini. It flourished particularly during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, when its theater was converted into an arena for gladiatorial games. In Byzantine times, Maroneia maintained its prosperity and became the seat of a bishop.

The ruins of the ancient city cover a vast area and include several signposted monuments (the theater, the sanctuary of Dionysus, the propylon, and an Early Christian basilica), while others are scattered among the olive groves and rugged landscapes of Mount Ismaros.

Directions

Archaeological Site of Maroneia
69400, Maroneia

Get directions

By car

8 minutes from the settlement of Maroneia
35 minutes from Komotini
50 minutes from Alexandroupoli

Opening hours

Summer hours

April 1 – October 31

Mon: 08:30 – 15:30
Tue: Closed
Wed: 08:30 – 15:30
Thu: 08:30 – 15:30
Fri: 08:30 – 15:30
Sat: 08:30 – 15:30
Sun: 08:30 – 15:30

Winter hours

November 1 – March 31

Mon: 08:30 – 15:30
Tue: Closed
Wed: 08:30 – 15:30
Thu: 08:30 – 15:30
Fri: 08:30 – 15:30
Sat: 08:30 – 15:30
Sun: 08:30 – 15:30

Last admission: 20 minutes before closing time



The site remains closed on the following dates and public holidays:
January 1, March 25, May 1, Easter Sunday, December 25 & 26.

Tickets

Full: €5.00
Reduced: €3.00

Admission is free on March 6, April 18, May 18, the last weekend of September, on October 28, as well as on the first and third Sunday of each month between November 1 and March 31.

Amenities

WC
Parking

Contact

Ephorate of Antiquities of Rhodope
T: +30 25310 22411
E: efarod@culture.gr

See also

Abdera: In the birthplace of Democritus

Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Αβδήρων
Archaeological Site

Amphiaraion: The sanctuary of a healing hero

Ο Ναός του Αμφιαράου
Archaeological Site
Hellenic Heritage
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