Anfiteatro cumano

The Amphitheatre of Cumae is an early Roman arena on the slope of Monte Grillo, built outside the ancient city's southern wall in the late second century BC.

Why it matters

The partly excavated building shows an early phase in the development of Roman amphitheatre architecture. Its hillside setting and lack of underground service spaces distinguish it from later, more elaborate arenas.

What to notice

Two levels of arcades survive on the southern side, with parts of the arena and seating area exposed. A small sanctuary stood above the seating, on a site with religious activity dating to the sixth century BC. A later refurbishment added a vaulted passage near the entrance.

Context and history

The amphitheatre was built at the end of the second century BC, when Cumae was adopting Roman urban forms. It was renovated in the early second century AD. Modern excavation has exposed only part of the structure; the surrounding site includes earlier sanctuary remains and later phases of use.