Roman Amphitheater of Venosa – a jewel of Basilicata

History and description

Founded as a Latin colony in 291 BC, Venosa (or Venusia), which later became a municipium and a triumviral colony, saw the construction of the amphitheater between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. It replaced private houses, incorporating various structures from different buildings. Arranged on three levels, the amphitheater has an elliptical shape that could hold up to 10,000 spectators. It is also characterized by numerous underground spaces and the remains of an unfinished Romanesque church.

Curiosities

A symbol of the city’s Romanization, the amphitheater—where several stone lions were found, now placed in the town center—organized its spectacles with the audience divided according to social class.

Access

Part of the Archaeological Park of Venosa, which also includes the domus, the Roman baths, and the early Christian baptistery, the amphitheater is open from Tuesday to Sunday in the mornings and offers free admission.

How to reach it

Located west of Venosa’s historic center, the amphitheater can only be reached by car or taxi via state road 655.

One of the few well-preserved examples of a Roman public structure, the amphitheater of Venosa, together with the rest of the park, offers visitors a rich archaeological experience surrounded by greenery.

Cover photo credits: Dida2parole (Wikimedia)