A large new ancient theater has been discovered after archaeological excavations on Koulmos hill in Lefkada. Test sections were cut in the area in late 2015, specifically on the northeast slope of the hill which forms a downward amphitheatrical hollow, ending in a long, flat section.
Knowledge of the ancient theater is limited as its existence is not mentioned at all in ancient sources. However in the early 20th century, an excavation under the direction of German archaeologist E.Kruger lasting several days recorded signs of the theater’s presence.
The Aitoloakarnania and Lefkada Antiquities Ephorate held digs in 13 sections and the results of the work confirmed the existence of the theater, uncovering rows of seats, part of an orchestra and parts of the retaining walls of the auditorium and the stage.
Specifically, in six of the sections, seats carved into the rock were found with a depth ranging from 0.73 to 0.90 meters and a height of 0.22 to 0.33 meters. The orchestra was located along with a wall section in a quadrant plan up to 0.60 merters wide. The retaining wall of the hollow was found to be 3 meters long and 0.79 meters wide. The retaining wall was found to be 25 meters in length and 0.75 meters high.
The continuation of the investigation, the promotion and protection of the monument have been cited as a priority by the Ministry of Culture and Sport. The Lefkada Municipality and Ionian Islands Regional Authority have both supported the excavations.
