Campano Amphitheatre of Capua
|
Latest page update: 13 February 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The Campano Amphitheatre is one of the most famous arenas from antiquity on the Italian Peninsula.
Built around 100 AD, it now stands in the town of Santa Maria Capua Vetere, around 5 kilometres from modern-day Capua. It is the second largest Ancient Roman amphitheatre in Italy behind only the Colosseum in terms of size. The impressive site includes a Gladiator Museum and visitor centre; an outstanding historic site in an otherwise plain, modern town. |
|
Related links
Campano Amphitheatre of Capua: Italy's second largest Ancient Roman amphitheatre
The Campano Amphitheatre, located in Santa Maria Capua Vetere, near the town of Capua in southern Italy's Campania region, is a remarkable historical site. It is easily accessible by car via the A1 motorway or by train from Naples and Caserta.
Second only to the Colosseum in size, this amphitheater dates back to the 1st century BCE and was a major center for gladiatorial games in ancient Rome. It is believed to have inspired the design of the Colosseum itself. Visitors can explore its impressive ruins, including the underground chambers where gladiators and animals were prepared for battles, as well as the remains of its grand arches and decorative sculptures.
The nearby Gladiator Museum provides further insights into the lives of these ancient warriors. Close to the amphitheater, visitors can explore the historic town of Capua, the Royal Palace of Caserta, and the ancient city of Pompeii for a deeper dive into Italy’s rich past.
Second only to the Colosseum in size, this amphitheater dates back to the 1st century BCE and was a major center for gladiatorial games in ancient Rome. It is believed to have inspired the design of the Colosseum itself. Visitors can explore its impressive ruins, including the underground chambers where gladiators and animals were prepared for battles, as well as the remains of its grand arches and decorative sculptures.
The nearby Gladiator Museum provides further insights into the lives of these ancient warriors. Close to the amphitheater, visitors can explore the historic town of Capua, the Royal Palace of Caserta, and the ancient city of Pompeii for a deeper dive into Italy’s rich past.
Anfiteatro Campano
|
Province: Caserta
Region: Campania Historical period: Antiquity Nearest train station: Santa Maria Capua Vetere (2 km) Close by: Sant'Agata de' Goti, Basilica di Sant'Angelo in Formis Recommended accommodation: Hotel Royal Caserta (7 km) |
What are the best accommodation options for the Campano Amphitheatre?
- B&B Mariella's House: A charming bed and breakfast offering comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests appreciate its central location and proximity to local attractions.
- Luxury B&B La Spelunca: This bed and breakfast features modern amenities, a garden, and a bar. It's known for its clean and comfortable accommodations, with a complimentary breakfast served at a nearby café.
- L'ARENA B&B: Located near the ancient Roman amphitheater, this bed and breakfast offers air-conditioned rooms and a convenient location for exploring historical sites.
- B&B Liberty: Offering inner courtyard views, this bed and breakfast features accommodations with a garden, free private parking, and free Wi-Fi.
- B&B Capuam Vetere Accommodation: This bed and breakfast offers accommodations with access to beauty services, featuring rooms with a wide array of breakfast options and a clean environment.
What's the best way to reach the Campano Amphitheatre?
The Campano Amphitheatre, located in the town of Santa Maria Capua Vetere in the Campania region of southern Italy, is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest airport is Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino), about 30 minutes by car or taxi from the amphitheater.
From the airport, you can drive along the A1 highway or take a local train from Naples Centrale station to Santa Maria Capua Vetere, which takes around 30 minutes. The town is well connected by road, with the SS7 and A1 highways leading directly to it. Santa Maria Capua Vetere's train station also offers frequent services from Naples and other regional cities. Local buses run regularly from nearby towns such as Caserta and Salerno, making it easy to reach the amphitheater.
From the airport, you can drive along the A1 highway or take a local train from Naples Centrale station to Santa Maria Capua Vetere, which takes around 30 minutes. The town is well connected by road, with the SS7 and A1 highways leading directly to it. Santa Maria Capua Vetere's train station also offers frequent services from Naples and other regional cities. Local buses run regularly from nearby towns such as Caserta and Salerno, making it easy to reach the amphitheater.
