Verona Arena is a Roman amphitheatre located in the city of Verona, in the northern Italian region of Veneto. It is one of the best preserved ancient structures in the world and is still used for performances and concerts. The Arena is built of pink and white marble, and dates back to the 1st century AD. It is the third largest amphitheatre in Italy, after the Colosseum in Rome and the Arena in Capua.
History
The Verona Arena was built during the rule of the Roman Empire, in the 1st century AD. It was originally used for gladiatorial combat and public entertainment. The amphitheatre was designed to hold up to 25,000 spectators. During the medieval period, the Arena was used for public executions and other public spectacles. In the 16th century, the Arena was used for fencing tournaments and bullfights.
Architecture
The Verona Arena is built in the typical elliptical shape of a Roman amphitheatre, and is made of pink and white marble. It measures 139 meters in length and 109 meters in width, and is surrounded by four tiers of seating. The first tier, known as the cavea, is the lowest and is divided into three sections. The second tier is the maenianum, and the third and fourth tiers are the summa cavea. The arena is topped by a wooden roof, which was added in the 13th century to protect the spectators from the elements.
Events
Today, the Verona Arena is still used for performances and concerts. It hosts opera performances, rock concerts, and other events throughout the year. Every summer, the Arena hosts the Verona Opera Festival, which features some of the world’s best opera singers. The Arena is also home to the annual Verona Jazz Festival, which features some of the best jazz musicians from around the world.
Location
The Verona Arena is located in the heart of the city, near the Piazza Bra. It is easily accessible by public transport and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Arena, which offers a fascinating insight into its history and architecture.
Conclusion
The Verona Arena is a remarkable and well-preserved ancient structure that still serves as a venue for performances and concerts. It is an impressive example of Roman architecture and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Visitors to Verona should not miss the opportunity to visit the Arena and experience its unique atmosphere.