Piazza Navona Underground - The Stadium of Domitian
Highlight
- Be the first to enter Rome's oldest sports facility dedicated to competitive athletics (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) built in 80 AD
- Discover a new perspective of Piazza Navona. Explore this underground Roman structure steeped in history, which previously accommodated gladiator contests following a fire at the Colosseum!
- Learn about Piazza Navona, the history of the Stadium of Domitian, and the sports events that took place here with the help of your audio guide (offered in 6 languages)
Summary
Description
Can you imagine that hidden beneath the lively Piazza Navona in Rome, there is an Ancient Roman structure full of fascinating history waiting to be discovered? Known as the Stadium of Domitian (or Circus Agonalis), this grand building could accommodate as many as 20,000 viewers, eager to witness fights and ... gymnastics. The activities hosted here included performances by skilled gymnasts (frequently hailing from Greece), foot races (sometimes involving female participants), and other spectacles.
Participating in the competition was viewed as incredibly significant; it was given so much value that the names of the winners have been found engraved on tombs. The honor of having one's name immortalized in stone seems more valuable than the prize given to them during their lifetime: a crown made of oak and olive branches. Perhaps their motivation was truly driven by their passion for the games?
Emperor Titus ordered the construction of The Stadium of Domitian around 80 AD (the year when the Colosseum was also completed). Moreover, following a fire incident in 217 AD that damaged the Colosseum, some gladiator contests took place at The Stadium of Domitian.
Formerly a hub for Roman entertainment, this stadium now rests beneath the contemporary city. Taking a break from the hustle and bustle to explore the ruins of the stadium is highly recommended.
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