Roman Theatre of Spoleto
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 21 January 2024
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The Roman Theatre of Spoleto forms part of the Museo Archeologico Nazionale complex at the foot of the town's historic centre, next to Piazza della Libertà. This, the Roman Theatre is not to be confused with Spoleto's Amphitheatre which is located at the opposite end of town.
The easiest way to distinguish between an amphitheatre and a theatre is to look at the shape: an elliptical or round shape denotes an amphitheatre from the Greek word amphi which means "both" (as in the case of amphibian) or "around". The typical Roman theatre such as the one in Spoleto, was semi-circular in shape and staged theatrical performances rather than say gladiatorial contests. |
Roman Theatre of Spoleto, Umbria
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That's not to say however that the Roman Theatre in Spoleto hasn't seen its fair share of bloodshed. Quite to the contrary, in 1319 it was the stage for the brutal slaughter of some 400 supporters of the Guelph faction during the internecine Wars of the Guelphs and Ghibellines of the Middle Ages.
In a savage act that saw the steps of the theatre run red with blood, the victims had their throats cut before being summarily thrown on to a heap to be burned.
Although the Roman Theatre dates back to the 1st century BC, it wasn't fully excavated until 1891 and has since undergone a significant restoration.
In a savage act that saw the steps of the theatre run red with blood, the victims had their throats cut before being summarily thrown on to a heap to be burned.
Although the Roman Theatre dates back to the 1st century BC, it wasn't fully excavated until 1891 and has since undergone a significant restoration.
Teatro Romano di Spoleto
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City: Spoleto
Region: Umbria Regional district: Perugia Province Built: 1st century BC Close by: Rocca Albornoziana, Vallo di Nera, Campello sul Clitunno Recommended accommodation: Hotel dei Duchi |
