The theater “Francesco Stabile” is located in Piazza Mario Pagano, the heart of the historic centre.

Nowadays, in the inside there are two small galleries, the foyer, the Ridotto conference room and the Hall of Mirror. Beyond the stalls area there are three tiers of boxes, the gallery, the stage, the orchestral pit and the velarium, painted by Luigi de Luise which represents the Triumphs of Pythagoras, the founding philosopher of his school in Metaponto, where he died in 490 BC.

The construction of the theater, built in the image and likeness of the San Carlo theater in Naples, began in 1856 with the funds of some wealthy shareholders, but the direct works resumed with the architects Alvino and Pisanti only many years later, due to interruption for the earthquake from 1857.

The official inauguration was held in 1881 at the presence of King Umberto I, the Queen and Prince Amedeo, with a performance of the ‘Traviata’ by Giuseppe Verdi.

After the earthquake, the theater suffered critical damages, but was immediately restored.
It was reopened only in 1990 when, while its original structure was maintained, its acoustic apparatus, lighting and spaces were improved.

On May 9, 1866 the City Council dedicated the theater to Francesco Stabile, who had been one of the supporters and promoters of the initiative.

Before the construction of the theater, the performances were made in the premises of the Congregation church, between Piazza Sedile and via XX September.