The Roman Amphitheatre in Jordan is an impressive historical monument that dates back to the 2nd century AD. Located in the heart of Amman, the capital city of Jordan, this amphitheater is believed to have been built during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius. The structure was carved into the hillside and could seat up to 6,000 spectators who would come to watch gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles.
The amphitheater is elliptical in shape and has two tiers of seating that are separated by a broad horizontal passageway called the diazoma. The upper tier of seating was reserved for the elite, while the lower tier was open to the public. The Amphitheatre was built with local limestone and measures approximately 80 meters in length and 60 meters in width.
Over the centuries, the Amphitheatre has undergone several renovations and restorations. In the 3rd century AD, the structure was expanded to include a stage and a backstage area. In the 5th century AD, the Christians repurposed the Amphitheatre as a church and constructed a chapel within the structure. Later, during the Ottoman period, the Amphitheatre was used as a warehouse and a prison.
Today, the Roman Amphitheatre in Jordan is a popular tourist destination and a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the structure and marvel at its architectural ingenuity, while also learning about the fascinating history of the region.
