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Ruins · Lecce, Apúlia
Anfiteatro romano di Lecce
Remains of the Roman amphitheatre from the time of Augustus, discovered in the early 20th century and exposed outdoors in Piazza Sant'Oronzo, the main square of Lecce, next to the patron's column.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Anfiteatro romano di Lecce
The amphitheatre demonstrates the importance of Lupiae, Roman Lecce, between the 1st and 2nd centuries. It was found by chance at the beginning of the 20th century during the construction of a bank building, and excavated until 1940. Only about one third of the structure is visible: the rest remains under the buildings and the church of Santa Maria della Grazia.
Externally it measured about 102 by 83 meters and could hold around 25,000 spectators. Part was excavated directly into the rock and part built on arches of stone blocks. You can still see sections of the arena, the lower stands and the corridors that ran through the structure. The arena sometimes hosts performances.
The amphitheatre occupies half of Piazza Sant'Oronzo, the center of the city's life. In the middle stands the Roman column with the statue of Sant'Oronzo, patron of Lecce, and the Sedile, a 1592 building that combined civil and military functions, next to the small church of San Marco, associated with Venetian merchants.
On the square's floor, a large mosaic shows the city's coat of arms, the she-wolf under the holm oak (leccio, in Italian).
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
15 to 30 minutes, viewing the arena from the top of the square.
Best time
At any time. In the late afternoon the square becomes busier; early in the morning it's easier to photograph the arena.
How to get there
It is located in Piazza Sant'Oronzo, in the heart of the historic center, about a 15-minute walk from the train station.
Tip
The arena is well seen from above, from the sidewalk that surrounds the excavation. Access to the interior is not permanent; check before you go. Watch your belongings when the square is crowded.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Anfiteatro romano di Lecce
How many people did the amphitheatre hold?
About 25,000 spectators, according to estimates.
Why is only part visible?
Because the rest remains beneath buildings and a church in the square; excavations did not extend over them.
What is the column in the middle of the square?
A Roman column topped by a statue of Sant'Oronzo, patron saint of Lecce.
Can you go down into the arena?
Not on a permanent basis. The arena is viewed from above, from the square itself; access to the interior happens on specific occasions.