The theater of Dodona was built in the 3rd century BCE to host events of the Naia Games. It is one of the largest ancient theaters in Greece; it had a seating capacity of 17,000 spectators, far more than the normal number of residents and visitors in Dodona, but suitable for the crowds that flocked here during the Games. Access is through double gates; the orchestra had an original diameter of 19m and the altar of Dionysus was in the middle. The cavea (seating area) is supported by massive walls and towers. There are also exterior staircases that allowed the audience to reach the higher parts of the cavea. The seats for the officials were in the first row.