Resti archeologici romani di Spello (teatro, anfiteatro e terme)

Roman Hispellum's theatre, amphitheatre and baths survive as dispersed archaeological remains within and around the modern town of Spello.

Why it matters

The remains reveal the public architecture of a prosperous Roman town. Their relationship to the forum, sanctuary and the Rescript of Constantine shows how civic and religious life shaped the ancient settlement.

What to notice

Only fragments of the theatre remain, including part of a concrete pillar core. The amphitheatre preserves a curved section of masonry built in small limestone blocks around a concrete core. Remains of Roman baths and sanctuary terraces are incorporated into later structures and the landscape near Villa Fidelia. The Rescript of Constantine, found in the theatre area, is preserved in the town hall.

Context and history

Hispellum's public architecture developed from the Augustan period through late antiquity. The Rescript of Constantine, an inscription from the early fourth century, permitted a temple for the imperial family and regulated associated festival games. The theatre and amphitheatre served the town's civic life, while baths supported daily routines. Modern development and early twentieth-century changes damaged or obscured some remains, but archaeological work has identified their principal locations and surviving fragments.