Explore the Odeion of Agrippa in VR

The Lithodomos VR team creates immersive Virtual Reality experiences of the ancient world for a variety of platforms, including the Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear VR and Google Cardboard. Lithodomos VR’s reconstructions stem from years of research and firsthand knowledge, and reflect the best academic practices to ensure that the end product is both as accurate as possible and informative and enjoyable for the viewer. Lithodomos VR experiences on virtual reality devices provide non-destructive, immersive, awe-inspiring experiences for visitors to archaeological sites and museums as well as for researchers and educators. Amongst their many projects, the company brought the Odeion of Agrippa to VR.

The Odeion of Agrippa occupied central pride of place in the Athenian agora. A gift of Augustus’ son-in-law M. Vipsanius Agrippa, this building was a potent symbol of Rome’s deep respect for Greece’s cultural legacy, and would have hosted musical performances, poetry recitations and exhibitions of rhetoric skill. Constructed around 15 BC, it had a seating capacity of about 1,000. The interior of the building was richly decorated with marble, and the stage building featured alternating marble slabs and Herms.

After the Odeion was destroyed by a fire in AD 267 it was rebuilt as gymnasium, in the Greek sense, i.e. a centre for higher learning. Today, the building stands out as an enigmatic structure during a visit to the Athenian agora, thanks to the three statues of tritons that were re-erected in the 19th century by the Greek Archaeological Society.

Their virtual reality reconstruction brings the observer onto the stage, with views out towards the audience. The striking decoration on the floor and walls serve as a reminder that colour was used as an important element in ancient building spaces.

Available now, for a limited time only, on Google Play and Oculus.