amphitheater

An amphitheater is a large, usually oval or circular, outdoor venue with seating arranged in concentric tiers around a central performance area. The name comes from Greek words meaning “around theater.” Amphitheaters are distinct from the semi-circular Greek theatres built into hillsides; they are freestanding structures designed to enclose spectators on all sides.

In classical form, Roman amphitheaters feature a continuous seating deck (the cavea) surrounding an open arena. They employ multiple entrances (vomitoria) to manage crowds and, in many cases, an underground network (hypogeum) used to house animals, prepare scenery, and stage performances. Unlike the distinct stage house of theatres, the focus is the arena itself, where spectacles such as gladiatorial combat, animal hunts, or other public entertainments took place. The Colosseum in Rome is the best-known example; other notable sites include the Amphitheatre of Pompeii, the Arena of Nimes, and the Amphitheatre of El Djem in Tunisia.

Historically, amphitheaters served as prominent civic spaces in the Roman world and influenced later arena design. In modern times, the form has influenced the design of many open-air concert venues and stadiums, although contemporary facilities are often optimized for different types of events and do not always replicate ancient features. Surviving structures are valued as cultural heritage, with many preserved for tourism, education, and occasional performances.