The Roman Theatre of Philippopolis is one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world — a 2nd-century AD cavea cut into the slope of the Dzhambaz hill, with its stage building substantially intact and marble seating in excellent condition. It was built during the reign of Trajan and could seat between 5,000 and 7,000 spectators.
The theatre overlooks the modern city and the Plovdiv plain, and the combination of the antique stone, the backdrop of the old town, and the distant mountain horizon creates one of the most striking views in Bulgaria. Performances — classical music, opera, theatre, rock concerts — are held throughout summer; the programme is published by the Plovdiv Philharmonic and through local listings. Visits to the site are possible outside performance times with a ticket.