ATHENS, Greece (November 25, 2009)--Greek officials say they will partially restore the ruined marble theater under the Acropolis, where the works of Euripides and other classical playwrights were first performed about 2,500 years ago.

The Culture Ministry said Wednesday the $9-million program is set for completion by 2015 and will include extensive modern additions to the surviving marble seats of the Theater of Dionysos.

Built on the southern slopes of the Acropolis Hill, the theater was first used in the late 6th century B.C., and hosted the opening performances of tragedies by Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides, as well as Aristophanes' comedies.

A small section of the 4th century B.C. seating, which could hold as many as 15,000 spectators, survives in place.