Theatre of Tindari

The Greek theater of Tindari (Tyndaris) stands in an archaeological site near Patti on the north coast of Sicily, in the metropolitan city of Messina. The city was founded in 396 BC by Dionysius I of Syracuse as a settlement for veteran mercenaries. The theater dates from the late 4th century BC and seated about 3,000 spectators. It was altered in Roman times and adapted for arena games. An arts festival has been held here since 1956, and the theater still hosts concerts, theater performances and festivals.

What is there to see at the Tindari excavation site?

• the theater, restored in 1939
• the so-called “Basilica”, in fact a gateway building (propylon) to the agora from the 4th century, with a barrel-vaulted passage and nine arches
• the Insula IV, a fully excavated residential block with six shops and two houses with colonnaded courtyards, plus mosaics
• remains of the city wall, which formed a circuit of about 3 kilometers
• the Antiquarium, a museum with finds from the site

The first excavations took place in the 19th century, with more in 1949 to 1964 and 1993 to 1998. Part of ancient Tindari has been uncovered to this day.

What is the view from Tindari like?

The site stands high above the sea. The view reaches across the Gulf of Patti and the Peloritani mountains to the Aeolian Islands. Nearby are the Sanctuary of Tindari with the Black Madonna, whose feast is celebrated on 7 and 8 September, and, at the foot of the cape, the nature reserve Laghetti di Marinello with its lagoons.

When is the site open?

The site is open Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays. Hours depend on the season: from 1 to 15 October 9:00 to 17:30, from 16 to 31 October 9:00 to 17:00 (as of 2026). Admission is charged. The Parco Archeologico di Tindari publishes current prices and hours.