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Why were Greek theatres often built into hillsides?

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Ancient Egyptian illustration from the Book of the Dead showing Anubis weighing the soul of the scribe Ani, with gods seated above and hieroglyphic text throughout. — Western theatre Anubis weighing the soul of the scribe Ani, from the Egyptian Book of the Dead, c. 1275 bce.

Greek theatres were frequently built into hillsides primarily to minimize the need for extensive excavation and the construction of complex supporting substructures. By utilizing the natural slope of the terrain, architects could create a banked seating area that brought spectators closer to the stage, ensuring better sightlines and audibility for the audience.12

In instances where a suitable natural slope was unavailable, builders would dig out earth and pile it up to form an embankment upon which seating could be placed. This design approach remained the standard for centuries, as it provided a cost-effective and efficient way to accommodate large crowds before the development of advanced arch and vault construction, which later allowed for the creation of elevated seating on level ground.12