The historic elements were unearthed during successive archaeological excavations dating back to the 1980s. Until now, many of these fragments have been stored in on-site warehouses and around the monument itself.

The primary objective of the initiative, outlined in the Master Plan for the Italica Archaeological Site, is to restore the structural integrity of the theatre's stage front (scaenae frons).

Specialist teams are using anastylosis - a archaeological technique where a ruined building is restored using its original architectural elements.Preserved features, including columns, capitals, architraves and friezes, are being reassembled to return the stage area to its original physical dimensions, allowing visitors to experience the monument in its full historic grandeur.

The theatre area was permanently incorporated into the public tour route of the archaeological site last December. The upgrade forms an essential part of the ancient Roman city's bid for Unesco World Heritage status, a nomination scheduled for official assessment by the international organisation's World Heritage Committee in 2027.

Researchers identified the precise positions of more than 260 decorative elements along the stage front through typological studies, photogrammetry and 3D digital modelling.

The implementation plan also sets out consolidation measures to treat existing structural remains that show signs of erosion caused by long-term exposure to the elements. Loose fragments recovered from storage will be systematically reintegrated alongside these consolidated structures.

Regional Minister for Culture, Patricia del Pozo, highlighted that the ongoing reconstruction is "a vital task for making the architecture of this building more accessible, representing a qualitative leap forward in its transformation into a museum and a significant cultural asset for the public".

Once completed, the restoration will also enable the ancient theatre to host live cultural performances.