The Stadium of Domitian, also known as the Circus Agonalis, is a significant historical site located to the north of the Campus Martius in Rome, Italy. This ancient stadium was commissioned around AD 80 by Emperor Titus Flavius Domitianus as a gift to the people of Rome and was primarily used for athletic contests. Today, it stands as a testament to Rome's rich history and architectural prowess.
The Stadium of Domitian was dedicated in AD 86, following the destruction of most of the buildings in the Field of Mars by fire in AD 79. This was part of an Imperial building programme initiated by Emperor Domitian. The stadium was Rome's first permanent venue for competitive athletics, and its design was inspired by Greek stadia. It could seat approximately 30,000 spectators and was constructed using brick, concrete, and marble.
Despite the passage of time and various historical events, substantial portions of the Stadium of Domitian have survived into the Renaissance era. However, these remnants were mined and robbed for building materials. Today, the Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most famous squares, sits over the interior arena of the Stadium. This unique blend of ancient and modern architecture makes it a fascinating site for visitors.
History & Anthropology Archaeology Historic house
Monday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
3,Via di Tor Sanguigna, Rome
No exhibitions in The Stadium of Domitian have been found.
The Stadium of Domitian has 1 rating.
The Stadium of Domitian, located beneath Piazza Navona in Rome, offers visitors a glimpse into ancient Roman history. This underground archaeological site reveals the remains of the first and only masonry stadium in Rome, built by Emperor Domitian in the 1st century AD.
Visitors appreciate the opportunity to explore the ancient ruins and learn about the stadium's history through informative panels and multimedia presentations. The site provides context to the modern Piazza Navona above, helping tourists understand the layered history of Rome.
However, some reviewers note that the museum is relatively small and can be explored quickly. The limited artifacts and partially preserved nature of the ruins may leave some visitors wanting more. Additionally, the lighting in some areas could be improved for better visibility.
Despite these minor drawbacks, many find the Stadium of Domitian to be an interesting addition to their Rome itinerary, especially for those interested in ancient Roman architecture and sports history. The museum offers a quieter, less crowded experience compared to some of Rome's more famous attractions.
Overall, while not as extensive as some of Rome's major archaeological sites, the Stadium of Domitian provides a valuable insight into a less-known aspect of the city's ancient past.
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