Roman amphitheatre of Volterra, Roman amphitheatre in Volterra, Italy
The Roman amphitheatre of Volterra is an ancient arena from the early imperial period, partially excavated on the edge of the historic town centre. The surviving walls, underground passageways, and a vaulted corridor beneath the main structure give a clear sense of how the building was organized.
The amphitheatre was most likely built in the 1st century AD, when Volterra was a notable city in Roman Etruria. Coins found during excavation helped researchers narrow down when construction took place.
The amphitheatre sits on the edge of Volterra's old town, next to a stretch of Etruscan city wall, making the contrast between two very different civilizations visible in a single glance. Visitors can stand between Roman stonework and far older Etruscan masonry without moving more than a few steps.
Access to the site is limited, so it is worth checking in advance whether guided visits are available on the day you plan to go. Wear sturdy shoes, as the ground is uneven and can become slippery after rain.
The amphitheatre was entirely unknown until 2015, when it was found by chance during routine work on a municipal plot of land. Despite its size, it had left no trace in any historical written source.
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