What is the origin of the word odeon?
The ancient Greek word odeon comes from the verb aeidein, which means I sing. This root also creates the words ode and aoidos for singer.
Questions about Odeon (building)
Short answers, pulled from the story.
How did an odeon differ from an open-air theatre in size and structure?
An odeon measured only about one quarter of the size of a standard theatre and featured a roof that covered the entire seating area. Builders added this roof to improve acoustic quality for indoor performances by blocking out wind and noise.
When was the original prototype building near the Acropolis destroyed?
Fire destroyed the original building during the First Mithridatic War between 87 BC and 86 BC. King Ariobarzanes I of Cappadocia rebuilt the venue after the flames consumed it.
Who built the most magnificent odeon on the Southwest cliff of the Acropolis and when?
Herodes Atticus built the most magnificent odeon on the Southwest cliff of the Acropolis around 160 AD. He constructed it in memory of his wife using cedar wood beams carved with beautiful detail.
Which Roman emperors commissioned odeons in Rome?
Emperor Domitian commissioned the first odeon in Rome while Emperor Trajan ordered a second one. Roman builders adapted the Greek design for their own cultural needs.