Roman Amphitheatre of Catania
Anfiteatro romano di Catania
Roman amphitheatre ruins exposed beneath Piazza Stesicoro, once second in size only to the Colosseum; visitors can descend into the vaulted passages.
The Roman amphitheatre was built in the 2nd century AD and could once hold about 15,000 spectators, ranking among the largest in the Roman Empire. Today most of it lies buried beneath the city. Only a corner is exposed in Piazza Stesicoro, where lava-stone arcades and seating can be seen, and you can look down on it from Via Etnea. When it is open, you can descend into the underground passages for a visit, and admission is cheap or free. Across from the square is the Bellini Monument, which is often visited together with Villa Bellini.
Opening hours
Exterior open all day; interior about 9:00 am–1:30 pm (may close Sun & holidays)
Nearby sights
- Via Etnea
- Via dei Crociferi
- Piazza Carlo Alberto Market (Fera 'o Luni)
- Villa Bellini
- Museo Civico Belliniano
- Roman Theatre of Catania
- Piazza del Duomo & Elephant Fountain, Catania
- Badia di Sant'Agata