Campano Amphitheatre
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 26 February 2022
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The Campano Amphitheatre is one of the most famous arenas from antiquity on the Italian Peninsula. Built around 100 AD, it now stands in the town of Santa Maria Capua Vetere, around 5 kilometres from modern-day Capua.
Places of interest close by include Sant'Agata de' Goti and the Basilica di Sant'Angelo in Formis. |
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The Campano Amphitheatre, also known as the Amphitheatre of Santa Maria Capua Vetere, is an ancient Roman amphitheater located in the town of Santa Maria Capua Vetere, near Naples, Italy. It is one of the largest and most well-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, and it holds significant historical and archaeological importance.
History: The Campano Amphitheatre was built during the 1st century AD, around the same time as the famous Colosseum in Rome. It was a grand arena used for gladiator contests, wild animal hunts, and other public spectacles that entertained the Roman citizens.
The amphitheater could hold up to 50,000 spectators and was a prominent symbol of Roman power and civilization in the region. Over the centuries, it fell into disuse and disrepair, and parts of its structure were used for other building projects. However, significant restoration work has taken place in recent years, allowing visitors to witness the impressive grandeur of this ancient structure.
Tourist Information: The Campano Amphitheatre is a popular tourist attraction in the Campania region of Italy. Its proximity to Naples and other historical sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum makes it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts.
Visiting Information: The Campano Amphitheatre is open to the public for visits. It is easily accessible from Naples and other nearby cities by car or public transportation. Guided tours are available for a more enriching experience, and visitors can check the schedule for events and performances during their visit.
As with any historical site, it is essential to respect the rules and guidelines set by the authorities to preserve and protect this valuable archaeological treasure.
History: The Campano Amphitheatre was built during the 1st century AD, around the same time as the famous Colosseum in Rome. It was a grand arena used for gladiator contests, wild animal hunts, and other public spectacles that entertained the Roman citizens.
The amphitheater could hold up to 50,000 spectators and was a prominent symbol of Roman power and civilization in the region. Over the centuries, it fell into disuse and disrepair, and parts of its structure were used for other building projects. However, significant restoration work has taken place in recent years, allowing visitors to witness the impressive grandeur of this ancient structure.
Tourist Information: The Campano Amphitheatre is a popular tourist attraction in the Campania region of Italy. Its proximity to Naples and other historical sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum makes it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts.
- Architecture: The amphitheater's elliptical shape and impressive size are striking features that evoke the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture. The seating area, known as the cavea, is divided into various sections for different social classes, and the underground chambers, known as the hypogeum, were used to hold gladiators and animals before they entered the arena.
- Guided Tours: Visitors can explore the amphitheater on guided tours that provide historical context and insights into the daily life and entertainment during Roman times. The guides offer explanations about the gladiatorial games, the architecture, and the significance of the amphitheater in ancient society.
- Events and Performances: The amphitheater occasionally hosts events, concerts, and theatrical performances, creating a unique ambiance where modern entertainment meets ancient history.
- Nearby Archaeological Museum: Next to the amphitheater, there is an archaeological museum, Museo Campano, where visitors can view artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the site and the Roman era.
Visiting Information: The Campano Amphitheatre is open to the public for visits. It is easily accessible from Naples and other nearby cities by car or public transportation. Guided tours are available for a more enriching experience, and visitors can check the schedule for events and performances during their visit.
As with any historical site, it is essential to respect the rules and guidelines set by the authorities to preserve and protect this valuable archaeological treasure.
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Province: Caserta
Region: Campania Established: 100 AD Close by: Sant'Agata de' Goti, Basilica di Sant'Angelo in Formis Nearest train station: Santa Maria Capua Vetere (2 km) Recommended accommodation: Hotel Royal Caserta (7 km) |
