Amphitheatar
Tipasa Amphitheatre, Algeria
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this amphitheatre is located in the ancient city of Tipasa in what was the Roman Province of Mauretania Caesariensis, now in Algeria. Built in the late 2nd century or early 3rd century AD, the city and its amphitheatre are suited for those who like their ruins authentically dilapidated.
Tipasa Amphitheatre, credit: Keith Miller (Wikimedia Commons)
Caerleon Amphitheatre, Wales
Now a grass-covered ruin, Caerleon Amphitheatre is the best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in Britain and still the sight to see. First excavated in 1909, the structure dates from around 90 AD and was built to entertain soldiers stationed at the fortress of Isca.
Caerleon Amphitheatre, credit: Johne Lamper (Wikimedia Commons)
Pula Arena, Croatia
The only remaining Roman amphitheatre to feature 4 side towers, Pula Arena took from 27 BC to 68 AD to construct. One of the 6 largest existing Roman amphitheatres, it is remarkably well preserved and features on Croatia’s 10 kuna banknote.
Pula Arena, credit: Boris Licina (Wikimedia Commons)
Arles Amphitheatre, France
This Amphitheatre in Southern France was built in 90 AD to hold 20,000 spectators. Unlike most amphitheatres, it hosted both gladiator matches and chariot races. Like the Arena of Nîmes, it is still used for bullfights during the Feria d’Arles.
Arles Amphitheatre, Credit: Stefan Bauer (Wikimedia Commons)
Arena of Nîmes, France
A grand example of Roman architecture, this arena was built in 70 AD and is used to continue the Roman tradition of cruel sports. Since being remodelled in 1863, it has been used to hold two annual bullfights during the Feria d’Arles. In 1989 a movable cover and heating system were installed in the amphitheatre.
Nimes Arena, credit: Wolfgang Staudt (Wikimedia Commons)
Trier Amphitheatre, Germany
Completed some time in the 2nd century AD, this 20,000-seater housed exotic beasts, such as African lions and Asian tigers. Due to its amazing acoustics, Trier Amphitheatre is still used for open-air concerts.
Trier Amphitheatre
Amphitheatre of Leptis Magna, Libya
Leptis Magna was a prominent Roman city in North Africa. Its amphitheatre, completed in AD 56, could hold around 16,000 people. In the morning it would host fights between animals, followed by executions at noon and gladiator fights in the afternoon hours.
Leptis Magna, credit: Papageizichta (Wikimedia Commons)
Amphitheatre of Pompeii
Built around 80 BC, this structure is oldest surviving Roman amphitheatre and was buried during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Its construction was highly regarded at the time of its use, particularly the design of its bathrooms.
Credit: Thomas Möllmann (Wikimedia Commons)
Verona Arena
Still used for large-scale opera performances, Verona’s amphitheatre was constructed in 30 AD and could hold an audience of 30,000.
Verona Arena
The Colosseum, Rome
The true king of all ancient amphitheatres, Rome’s Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was began under the reign of Vespasian in 72 AD and completed under Titus 8 years later. Still an impressive and imposing sight, it once held an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 spectators.
Credit: Diliff (Wikimedia Commons)