The theatre was built in 155 AD by the Greek architect Zenon, a native of the city, during the rule of Marcus Aurelius.

Technically the structure is a theatre not an amphitheatre, the latter being fully round or oval shaped.

The cavea is partly built against the slope of the hill, which provides a natural foundation.

The stage wall is completely intact, only the original eight-meter-deep wooden ceiling has disappeared.

Around the theater, 58 holes have been found where there used to be poles, which could be used to stretch a large velarium over the grandstand to protect the spectators from the sun.