Vicenza Palladio, two closely associated words. The city is namely related to the works of this world-renowned Italian architect. One of the many awe-inspiring places to visit in Vicenza is the Teatro Olimpico (Olympic Theater), a one-of-kind stunning theater.
Palladio’s architectural prowess is evident in the design not only of several villas dotted around the Venetian countryside and many buildings in Vicenza, but also in the creation of the Teatro Olimpico, a public space for entertainment that continues to amaze visitors to this day.
Why visit the Olympic Theater? It is still the first and oldest covered stable theater of the modern era, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994 and a must-see for lovers of art and architecture.
Let’s find out together!
A bit of History
The Olympic Theater in Vicenza is often considered the first enclosed theater in Italy, but this statement is somewhat inaccurate. Rather, it stands as the last of the old-fashioned theaters that transport us to the modern era of theater.
Constructed in 1580 at the behest of the Olympic Academicians, the theater was envisioned as a grand building reminiscent of ancient Rome. However, by that time, Roman, Florentine, and Lombard circles had already moved on from the ostentatious grandeur of Ancient Rome by at least 30 years.
The design was based on the ancient Roman theaters described by Vitruvius, featuring an elliptical “cavea” (enclosure) with wooden steps and a colonnade encircling it, adorned with statues on the frieze. The stage consists of two architectural orders, flanked by three arches and punctuated by half-columns. Niches with statues and panels with bas-reliefs are adorning the stage.
Through his genius, Andrea Palladio succeeded in resurrecting an outdated architectural style within an unsuitable space, adapting it to the tastes and needs of the time.
It’s just a matter of Perspective
The main reason to visit the Teatro Olimpico is the cityscape that appears on stage, visible behind the stage wings. The city is a perfectly crafted miniature, created by Vincenzo Scamozzi, who took charge of the stage design after Palladio’s passing. Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex was the opening performance in 1585, and the city portrayed was not Thebes, but rather a Renaissance city: a beautiful Vicenza, identified with the ancient city of Thebes.
The final outcome is vastly different from what Andrea Palladio had envisioned. Scamozzi’s new design, however, proved to be perfect. It was a contemporary stage design that was in keeping with the times from both a technical-formal and perspective viewpoint.
The Teatro Olimpico is a true masterpiece of architecture and engineering, a marvel of the Italian Renaissance that is undoubtedly worth a visit!
The beating Heart of Art
The Teatro Olimpico remains an active venue for plays, concerts, and other cultural events. Its exceptional acoustics and intimate size make it ideal for chamber music performances and cultural reviews.
As such, the Teatro Olimpico is a vibrant and dynamic space, serving as a cultural and artistic centerpiece not just for Vicenza but for all of Italy. Its timeless beauty and charm continue to draw visitors from far and wide, making it one of the most remarkable destinations to experience.
| Keep reading: Explore the charm of the Palladian Basilica |
