Lykavittos Open-air Theater to Get Facelift

Lykavyttos Τheater – archive photo. Source: Visit Greece

The historic Lykavittos open-air theater atop Lycabettus Hill in central Athens, will be getting a facelift as part of an ongoing drive for the overall upgrade of the Greek capital.

Renovation plans, budgeted at 1.98 million euros, and including structural reinforcements, seating replacement, power and lighting installations, were tabled earlier this month by the Attica Region, the culture ministry, and Public Properties Company (ETAD).

Lycabettus Hill, Athens. Photo © Maria Theofanopoulou

A relevant study is expected to be submitted in the coming months.

Authorities said they would be launching a tender for the project – dubbed “Lykavittos Pan.Orama” – in winter and completion would last six months with costs covered exclusively by the Attica Regional authority. The makeover plan will also include improving the surrounding area with the aim of transforming the landmark into a hub for recreational, social and environmental events and activities.

Plans for the 3.56-hectare adjoining area will be selected following a Europe-wide architectural competition.

View of the Lycabettus Hill, Athens, Greece. Photo Source: Visit Greece / Y. Skoulas

Designed by architect Takis Zenetos and constructed in 1965 over an old quarry on the initiative of Greek thespian Anna Synodinou, the 3,000-seat Lykavittos Theater has hosted hundreds of world famed music and theater performers over time. It has remained closed since 2013.