Roman Amphitheatre, Arezzo

Amphitheatre in Arezzo

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko

At the southern edge of Arezzo's historic center lies one of its most extraordinary and ancient sites — the Roman Amphitheatre. Built in the first half of the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, this vast elliptical structure once stood as the focal point of public entertainment in Roman Arezzo. Today, its weathered stone arcs still curve gracefully along Via Crispi and Via Margaritone, reminding visitors of the city's enduring ties to the grandeur of the Roman Empire.

Though partly ruined by time and centuries of reuse, the amphitheatre remains one of the top attractions in Arezzo for history lovers. Walking around its perimeter or viewing it from the nearby Archaeological Museum reveals a fascinating story of power, craftsmanship, and survival. It's a highlight of any walking tour of Arezzo, where the Roman past meets the Renaissance cityscape in a uniquely Tuscan way.

History and Significance of the Roman Amphitheatre
Things to See and Do in the Roman Amphitheatre
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting the Roman Amphitheatre
Is the Roman Amphitheatre Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions to the Roman Amphitheatre

History and Significance of the Roman Amphitheatre

The Roman Amphitheatre of Arezzo was constructed between 117 and 138 AD, a period when the city was firmly integrated into the Roman Empire. Originally founded as an Etruscan settlement, Arezzo became an important Roman outpost and garrison, attracting settlers, merchants, and soldiers. As the city prospered, its Roman citizens demanded the same amenities as those in the empire's great cities — baths, temples, and arenas for games and spectacles. The amphitheatre was built to meet these needs, becoming a centerpiece of civic and cultural life.

With dimensions of roughly 120 meters along its major axis and 70 along the minor, it could accommodate thousands of spectators. Its sandstone and brick structure, enhanced with marble details, reflected the wealth and skill of local builders. Over time, however, the amphitheatre’s fortunes declined alongside those of the empire. During the Middle Ages, its stones were systematically repurposed for new constructions, most notably the nearby Monastery of San Bernardo, which rose directly within its walls in the 14th century.

Extensive restoration work carried out in the 20th century brought much of the amphitheatre back into view. Today, visitors can admire its surviving tiers, inner corridors, and vaulted entrances — remarkable feats of Roman engineering that have endured for nearly two millennia.

Things to See and Do in the Roman Amphitheatre

While the amphitheatre itself is not always open for interior access, much of its grandeur can be appreciated from the surrounding streets and the elevated vantage points of the adjoining St. Bernard Monastery. The site's elliptical form and partially preserved arches allow visitors to visualize its original scale and the lively spectacles that once filled its arena. Four vaulted entrances — two on each axis — still stand, offering striking perspectives of both the amphitheatre and the monastery that succeeded it.

Inside the Monastery of San Bernardo, which has housed the Archaeological Museum of Arezzo since 1937, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the site's history. The museum's loggia offers one of the best views of the amphitheatre's layout, while its collection showcases artifacts unearthed from across the region, including pottery, sculpture, and mosaics from the Roman and Etruscan eras. This spot is one of the best places to see in Arezzo for anyone eager to trace the city's ancient roots.

A path running alongside the amphitheatre's outer wall offers another way to experience the site. Walking here at sunset, when the golden light brushes against the stone ruins, evokes a haunting sense of continuity between the Arezzo of the past and the vibrant city of today.

How to Get There

The Roman Amphitheatre is located between Via Crispi and Via Margaritone, near the southern edge of Arezzo's old town. From Arezzo railway station, it's about a 10-minute walk along Via Roma and Via Margaritone. The entrance to the Archaeological Museum of Arezzo is at Via Margaritone 10. For visitors arriving by car, nearby parking options include Parcheggio Pietri or Parcheggio Eden, both within a short walk of the site.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Roman Amphitheatre

Best time to visit the Roman Amphitheatre: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather and pleasant walking conditions.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free to view from the outside; museum entrance around 6–8 EUR.
Opening hours: The Archaeological Museum (with views of the amphitheatre) typically 10:00–18:00; closed on Mondays.
Official website: www.discoverarezzo.com
How long to spend: Around 45–60 minutes, including the museum.
Accessibility: The exterior is accessible; interior terrain uneven and partly restricted.
Facilities: Restrooms and ticket office located inside the museum.
Photography tip: Late afternoon provides the best light for capturing the stone arches and shadows.
Guided tours: Available via the museum or local archaeological associations.
Nearby food options: Cafés and trattorias on Via Margaritone and Via Roma serve light lunches and Tuscan specialties.

Is the Roman Amphitheatre Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Roman Amphitheatre is one of the things to do in Arezzo that connects visitors to the city's ancient identity. While it may not rival the size of Rome's Colosseum, its setting and atmosphere are uniquely intimate, offering an evocative glimpse into the city's layered history. The combination of ruins, monastery, and museum makes it a rewarding stop for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.

Nearby Attractions to the Roman Amphitheatre

Archaeological Museum of Arezzo – Housed in the Monastery of San Bernardo, featuring Etruscan and Roman artifacts.
Petrarca Park and Medici Fortress – A scenic green retreat offering panoramic views of the city and valley.
Piazza Grande – Arezzo's iconic sloping square framed by medieval and Renaissance buildings.
Basilica of San Francesco – Home to Piero della Francesca's celebrated fresco cycle, The Legend of the True Cross.
Casa Vasari – The artist's home filled with his own frescoes and Renaissance decoration.

The Roman Amphitheatre appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arezzo!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!