Amphitheatre of Capua

The Amphitheatre of Capua: A Glimpse into Ancient Rome

The Amphitheatre of Capua, located in Santa Maria Capua Vetere, stands as a magnificent relic of Roman engineering. Once the second-largest amphitheatre in the Roman world, it likely served as the model for the iconic Colosseum in Rome. This grand structure also housed the first and most famous gladiator school, marking it as a significant historical site.

Historical Origins

Constructed during the Roman era, the amphitheatre’s exact date of origin remains debated. Some historians suggest it was built around the first century BC, while others argue it was erected around AD 100 on the ruins of an earlier structure. This debate adds an element of mystery to its already rich history.

Architectural Marvel

The amphitheatre boasted an elliptical plan, typical of Roman amphitheatres. Its major axis stretched 170 meters, while the minor axis measured 139 meters. The façade, standing 46 meters high, featured four levels adorned with 80 arches. Each arch had a keystone decorated with a bust of a god. Today, seven of these busts are part of the Palazzo Municipale in Capua, while others are displayed in local museums.

Significant Discoveries

During excavations in 1726, archaeologists unearthed a damaged inscription in front of the southern gate. This inscription, now housed in the Museo Campano in Capua, provided valuable insights into the amphitheatre’s history. It revealed that the Colonia Julia Felix Augusta Capua constructed the amphitheatre, and Emperor Hadrian later restored it in AD 119. Hadrian added statues and columns, further enhancing its grandeur. Emperor Antoninus Pius dedicated the structure in AD 155.

Middle Ages and Decline

The amphitheatre’s fortunes waned after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. It suffered damage from the Vandals and later the Saracens. During the Middle Ages, it served as a fortress for the Lombard princes of Capua. However, it was gradually dismantled by the locals, who repurposed its stone for various construction projects. The Capuans used the stones for the Lombard castle, the Capua Cathedral, and several palaces. The destruction halted only in the Bourbon period when the king declared it a national monument.

Legacy and Preservation

Today, the remains of the Amphitheatre of Capua continue to captivate visitors. The site includes not only the amphitheatre but also a museum and a mithraeum, all managed by the state museum of Campania since December 2014. The amphitheatre’s historical significance, architectural splendor, and connection to gladiatorial combat make it a vital piece of Roman heritage.

Conclusion

The Amphitheatre of Capua offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome. Its history, from its construction and glory days to its decline and partial preservation, tells a compelling story. Visitors to Santa Maria Capua Vetere can explore this remarkable site and imagine the spectacles that once took place within its walls. The amphitheatre stands not only as a monument to Roman engineering but also as a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient history.

Sources

Wikipedia