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Teatro Piccolo: An Intimate Glimpse into Pompeii's Past
Explore the enchanting Teatro Piccolo in Pompeii, a remarkably preserved Roman theater offering an intimate glimpse into ancient cultural life.
The Teatro Piccolo, also known as the Odeon, is a well-preserved small theater in Pompeii, dating back to 80-75 BC. Built during the early years of the Roman colony, it offered a more intimate setting for musical performances, poetry recitals, and mime shows, distinct from the larger amphitheater. Its excellent acoustics and refined architecture provide a unique glimpse into the cultural life of ancient Pompeii.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Teatro Piccolo
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Pompei, Metropolitan City of Naples, 80045, IT
Monday
9 am-7 pm
Tuesday
9 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday
9 am-12:30 pm
Thursday
9 am-12:30 pm
Friday
9 am-12:30 pm
Saturday
9 am-12:30 pm
Sunday
9 am-12:30 pm
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Getting There
Walking
The Teatro Piccolo is located within the Pompeii Archaeological Park, near the Teatro Grande and Triangular Forum. From the Porta Marina entrance, follow the signs towards the Forum and the Teatro Grande. The Teatro Piccolo is adjacent to the Teatro Grande. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes on well-marked paths. Entry to the Teatro Piccolo is included with the general Pompeii Archaeological Park ticket.
Public Transport
From Naples or Sorrento, take the Circumvesuviana train to the Pompei Scavi - Villa dei Misteri station. Exit the station and follow the signs to the Porta Marina entrance of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, which is directly across the street. From there, follow the walking directions to the Teatro Piccolo. A single train ticket from Naples to Pompei costs approximately €3.30. Alternatively, take the EAV bus from Naples or Sorrento to Pompeii. Get off at the Pompei bus station and walk to the Porta Marina entrance. Bus tickets cost approximately €3-€5.
Car
From the A3 highway, take the Pompei Ovest exit. Follow the signs to the Pompeii Archaeological Park. There are several parking lots near the Porta Marina and Piazza Anfiteatro entrances. Parking costs range from €1-€2 per hour, with daily rates around €10. Budget-friendly options include the Shrine of Pompeii Parking (€2 for all-day) and the Municipal Lot (€0.50 per hour), though they are farther from the site. From the parking area, walk to the Porta Marina entrance and follow the walking directions to the Teatro Piccolo.
Local tips
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Combine your visit to the Teatro Piccolo with a tour of the larger Pompeii archaeological site for a comprehensive historical experience.
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Check the opening hours before your visit, as they vary depending on the season.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground.
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Consider visiting during the week for a less crowded experience.
Discover more about Teatro Piccolo
Nestled within the ancient city of Pompeii, the Teatro Piccolo, or Odeon, offers a captivating look into the cultural heart of this Roman city. Constructed around 80-75 BC, during Pompeii's transition into a Roman colony, this roofed theater provided a more intimate venue for various performances. Unlike the grand amphitheater, the Teatro Piccolo was designed for music, poetry, and mime, creating a unique and personal experience for both performers and audience members.
The theater's architecture blends Greek design with Roman construction techniques. With a seating capacity of approximately 1,300, the Teatro Piccolo was meticulously designed to reflect the social hierarchies of the time, with lower rows reserved for the elite. The acoustics were enhanced by a four-pitched tiled roof, allowing every sound to be heard clearly throughout the venue. The orchestra area features a floor made of colored marble slabs, a gift from Marco Oculatio Vero during the Augustan era.
Excavated in phases starting in 1769, the Teatro Piccolo stands as a testament to Pompeii's cultural richness. The structure retains many original features, including graffiti left by ancient spectators. The stage, once adorned with marble, includes spaces for curtains and three entrances that led to dressing rooms. Though the venue is not currently used for performances, visitors can still appreciate its enchanting ambiance and well-preserved structure.
A brief summary to Teatro Piccolo
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