The Herod Conservatory of Attica He is preparing to close for three years in order to carry out extensive maintenance, protection and highlighting work of the historical monument. This year’s production of the Athens -Epidaurus Festival will be the last before the suspension, with Herodion remaining open until the end of October for the already scheduled events.
Why does Herodion close
According to Elena Kountouris, Head of the Directorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities, the work is aimed at preserving and better reading the monument, as well as upgrading the infrastructure of the Athens and Epidaurus Festival.
Damage detected include:
-
Biodegradation From microorganisms to cavities with lake water.
-
Root growth In joints, with soil accumulation.
-
Cracks and cracks in depth and on the surface.
-
Ready captain fragments due to breakage.
-
Failure of older interventions With inappropriate materials.
-
Material loss due to thermal dilators.
The new interventions in the monument
The interdisciplinary program of the National Technical University of Athens will include:
-
Fastening and restoring the southern wall of the stage, the wet and the perimeter wall.
-
Geotechnical research and control of static adequacy of old 1950s.
-
Introduce the stage building and mosaic floors.
-
Audio stress control of the monument.
-
Renovation of dressing rooms, wcs and festival facilities.
-
Design of new infrastructure, rainwater, E/M networks and fire protection.
The detailed presentation of the studies is expected in early 2026, following the approval by the Central Archaeological Council.
Herodion in time
Since 1955, Herodion has been a central core of the Athens Festival, hosting leading artists from around the world. Legendary figures such as Maria Callas, Frank Sinatra, the three tenors, Montsrat Campagie, as well as contemporary names such as Coldplay, who returned there the video clip of the song “Feels Like I Falling in Love”.
The last summer before closing
The latest opera production, “Rigoletto”, raised warm applause from the public, on a night that looked like farewell – not definitive, but with the promise of returning.