REMARKABLE EXAMPLES OF ANCIENT DESIGN
The theatre was not the only spectacular structure at Metropolis, which had been designed down to the smallest detail for maximum effect on its steep hillside site. With its sewerage and water systems, streets extending in a grid from one side of the city to the other, and in particular the grand flight of steps adorned with lion's feet on either side leading up to the acropolis, the city is truly imposing. The council hall where decisions about everything from the price of bread and the city accounts, to the renting of land and capital punishments, were taken, is one of the most impressive works of architecture here. The façade was adorned with carvings, and within were numerous statues of councillors and city notables. The carved head of a woman and several torsos of statues found here are beautiful examples of Hellenistic period sculpture. The council hall seating around 350 people is still impressive today, despite the Byzantine fortress wall built right through the centre in the 12th or 13th century AD.