Amphitheatre of Pompeii

The amphitheatre of Pompeii is one of the oldest and best preserved amphitheatres in the world. It could hold 20,000 spectators who admired gladiator shows.

It is located about 6 meters deep with a width of 104 meters and a length of 135 meters.

The structure of the amphitheater

Externally the building consisted of two orders: the lower one with blind arches and the upper one with round arches. Between the two is the ambulatory.

The upper steps were reached through two large staircases. Access to the amphitheater was through a gallery with four entrances, two of which allowed direct access to the arena.

It is probable that the high charges used a privileged access for the boxes of honor divided from the rest of the audience by a masonry.

The cavea was divided into three zones: one for prominent people, one for the people and one for women.

The animals participating in the gladiatorial games entered the arena through a small gap.

In the winter months and in the warmer period the amphitheater was not used; while during the summer a dark linen veil was placed at the top of the bleachers.

Where is the amphitheatre of Pompeii?

The amphitheater was built in the south-eastern part of the city because the area was uninhabited and therefore the bustle of the spectators did not hinder the daily life of the inhabitants. They also saved construction costs because the existing embankment on one side was used and only the other side was built artificially.

Near the amphitheatre are Casa del Menandro and the Garden of the Fugitives.