Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Two lonely Corinthian columns are all that remain of a 3-story stage wall that once
featured more than 100 columns and statues painted in vibrant colors. Actors with main
roles entered throughthe central arch, overwhich agrandstatue ofCaesar Augustusstood
(on display at the Ancient History Museum). Bit players entered through side arches. The
orchestra section is defined by a semicircular pattern in the stone in front of you. Step-
ping up onto the left side of the stage, look down to the slender channel that allowed the
brilliant-red curtain to disappear below, like magic. The stage, which was built of wood,
was about 160 feet across and 20 feet deep. The actors' changing rooms are backstage,
down the steps.
• A block uphill is the...
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Nearly 2,000 years ago, gladiators fought wild animals here to the delight of 20,000
screaming fans. Today local daredevils still fight wild animals here—“bullgame” posters
around the arena advertise upcoming spectacles (see
here
). A lengthy restoration process
is now complete, giving the amphitheater an almost bleached-teeth whiteness.
