Three-year heritage restoration project at the Herodeon

The objective of the Ministry of Culture and Sports, as stated in its announcement, is the comprehensive restoration of the monument complex, alongside the enhancement of its functional infrastructure, so that it integrates harmoniously into both the natural and built environment.

According to the ministry, the maintenance, restoration, and upgrading works are expected to last at least three years from their commencement, during which the monument will remain closed to the public. Currently, the Herodeon exhibits significant structural issues, including deterioration of the upper arcade of the façade, stone cracking, localized risks of collapse, biodegradation from microorganisms, and deficiencies from previous interventions.

Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni stated that the monument represents a “major cultural asset for the city of Athens, of great historical significance and supralocal value,” emphasizing that the interventions follow international conservation principles while addressing the requirements of a modern performance venue. She noted that upon completion, the Herodeon will be protected against both natural and human-induced deterioration, while its readability and functionality for contemporary cultural productions—particularly those of the Athens Festival—will be enhanced.

Extensive Restoration and Reconstruction Interventions

The completed studies include an architectural restoration plan, structural adequacy assessment, structural restoration plan, architectural interventions for modern infrastructure, structural design, mechanical and network engineering studies, and a specialized acoustics study.

Structural restoration interventions foresee the removal of incompatible modern materials, stabilization and bonding of stones, replacement of deteriorated elements, and correction of deformations. Concurrently, restorative works will include wall recovery, reconstruction of domes and staircases, restoration of architectural elements, and rebuilding of the loge and the perimeter wall.

Special attention is given to revealing and highlighting the stage building and its mosaic floors, which currently remain hidden, as well as to assessing the structural adequacy of earlier restorations from the 1950s.

New Infrastructure and Functional Upgrading

The project also involves redesigning electromechanical networks, stormwater management, upgrades to sewage and fire protection systems. In the surrounding area, the square and grove will be reorganized to alleviate congestion from auxiliary uses and improve functionality for both visitors and productions.

Plans include the creation of an elevated platform with covered areas for ticket offices, a refreshment area, and technical facilities, the reconstruction of sanitary facilities, and new masonry to support events. The interventions are designed to be reversible, with modern elements integrated discreetly into the landscape.

A notable innovation is the installation of a new semicircular lighting structure to replace existing scaffolding, combining aesthetic harmony with functional organization of stage equipment.

Pioneering Acoustics Study

The acoustics study examines the effect of both natural and amplified sound on the monument’s southern wall. In the absence of internationally established standards for the “acoustic behavior” of historic spaces, a dedicated research methodology was developed for objective assessment of impacts, which is considered crucial for future event management.

Additionally, a new operational regulation for the monument is planned, to be drafted by a team of scientists and artists and formalized institutionally, aiming to ensure high-quality events while maximizing protection of the site.