Antiquarium del Teatro Romano, Gubbio

Amphitheatre in Gubbio

Antiquarium Del Teatro Romano

In the municipality of Gubbio, nestled within the archaeological enclave of Guastuglia, lies a captivating relic of ancient Roman civilization: the Roman theatre. Constructed around 20 BC under the stewardship of magistrate Gnaeus Satrius Rufus, this monumental edifice stands as a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of Roman engineering. Crafted from imposing limestone blocks expertly hewn into rustic ashlar, the theatre sprawls across the late Republican quarter, encompassing an expanse delineated by Via Matteotti, Via Perugina, Via Ubaldi, and Via Parruccini.

A journey through the remnants of this architectural marvel and the curated artifacts of the Antiquarium presents a profound opportunity to delve into the social fabric of the Roman city of Iguvium-Gubbio, unveiling the intricacies of daily life, cultural norms, and societal structures of antiquity. With a seating capacity accommodating approximately 6,000 spectators, this colossal structure stands as one of the era’s largest, boasting two tiers of arcades, though only the lower tier and remnants of the upper gallery arches endure. Traces of reticulated masonry adorn the corridors of the vomitoriums, offering glimpses into the craftsmanship of ancient builders.

The cavea, or seating area, is partitioned into four sections, likely delineated by aisles, while areas devoid of steps likely housed wooden staircases for audience ingress and egress. Beneath the elevated stage, the orchestra floor, paved with meticulously laid limestone slabs, features a sophisticated drainage system, channeling rainwater into a vast cistern beneath the pulpitum.

Completing the ensemble, the frons scaenae, or stage facade, showcases two rectangular side niches flanking a central semicircular alcove, hinting at the opulent embellishments that once adorned this theatrical masterpiece. With each stone and archway whispering tales of a bygone era, a visit to the Roman theatre of Gubbio offers a profound journey into the heart of ancient Roman culture and civilization.


The Antiquarium del Teatro Romano, Gubbio appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gubbio!

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Visiting Antiquarium del Teatro Romano, Gubbio

Hours:

Wednesday to Sunday: 8.30am – 7.30pm, last admission allowed at 7pm: 00.

Closed on Monday and Tuesday.


Price:

€3,00

Address: Museo del Teatro Romano, Viale Teatro Romano, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy
Duration: 20 minutes

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