Anfiteratro romano Amiternum
(AQ) - L'Aquila

The Roman Amphitheatre of Amiternum is located near the ancient city of Amiternum, in the current province of L'Aquila, in Abruzzo. This archaeological site represents one of the most significant testimonies of the Roman presence in this region. Amiternum was an important city of ancient Sabina, which during the Roman period became a strategic center, in particular for its role in the conquest and colonization of the territory. The amphitheatre probably dates back to the 1st century AD, a period in which the Roman Empire was at the height of its splendor and the construction of amphitheatres for public spectacles, such as gladiatorial games and venationes (battles between men and beasts), was very common. The amphitheatre of Amiternum is not as large as the famous amphitheatres of Rome, but it has an elliptical shape, typical of these structures, with dimensions that are around 50 meters in length and 40 meters in width. The monument was built in local stone, and still retains many of its original features, such as the remains of the steps, galleries and arches.
The amphitheatre could accommodate up to about 5,000 spectators, demonstrating its importance even in a relatively small city. Its structure was divided into various sectors for the different social classes: the nobles occupied the highest steps, while the lower classes sat in the lower sectors.