Odeon ofPerikles

THE ODEON OF PERIKLES

The Odeon ⟾ ( the etymology of the word indicates a building intended for musical auditions and recitals) of Perikles was built sometime between the 440s and 430s BCE.

• The building was commissioned by Perikles for use in the Panathenaia festival.

• the Odeon was also a venue for poetry readings, political rallies, and philosophical performances

• The original design of the Odeon was inspired by the tent of the Persian King Xerxes a spoil of war the Athenians salvaged after their decisive victory at Salamis in 480 BCE.

• The building's roof was made of timber from captured Persian ships. In this sense, the Odeon was both a triumphant symbol of Athens, and an insult to their Persian enemies. This structure was considered one of the grandest architectural accomplishments of ancient Athens.