A study of the acoustic parameters of ancient theaters

Abstract

Although many centuries have passed, in many ancient theatres evocative theatrical performances still take place, especially during summer. Greek and Latin architects care for equilibrium of proportions offers not only an intense quality of view but also a high quality acoustics. In our study we did an analysis both theoretical and experimental of the acoustic parameters of the ancient theaters of Syracuse, Segesta, and Akrai, in Sicily and the theater of Bulla Regia, in Jendouba (Tunisia), it was only simulated, because of the inability to reach the scene for reasons due to the political turmoil. A measurement session was carried out by our team in the framework of a wide research project on ancient theatres acoustics in the modern use. From data recorded “room criteria” parameters have been evaluated together with spectral analysis in order to gain deeper information on the acoustic field. Main results are compared to data collected during the team experience in the past years.