The Tarragona Amphitheatre is one of the city’s most striking Roman structures. The remains of the ancient building features an elliptical arena and rows of stone seats that were built into a hillside. Tour the arena where gladiators once fought to the death, wild animals were hunted and criminals were executed.
The amphitheatre dates back to the 2nd century A.D., and is situated close to the beach. The location was chosen so that exotic animals could be brought here directly from boats.
Before your visit, photograph the amphitheatre and its Mediterranean Sea backdrop from El Balcón del Mediterráneo. This is an elevated viewpoint on the Rambla Nova. Then follow the stairs down to the ancient gladiatorial venue.
Walk among the stands that once held up to 15,000 people, then sit one of the nearly 2,000-year-old seats. Descend into the arena and find the gateway that gladiators walked through prior to their combat.As you approach the centre of the arena, see the collection of ruins in the shape of a Latin cross. They are all that remain of the romanesque church of Santa Maria del Miracle that was built here in the 12th century. It was constructed over a Visigoth basilica that was dedicated to two Christian martyrs who were burned alive in the arena.
The Tarragona Amphitheatre is open every day except Mondays, and admission charges apply. There are discounts for retired persons and students, and children under the age of 16 get in for free.
The ancient Roman structure is situated below the south end of the Rambla Nova, the city's principle traffic artery. It is within walking distance of the harbour and railway station.
One of the best times to visit the Tarragona Amphitheatre is in May during Tarraco Viva. At this city-wide celebration of Roman history, reenactments of gladiator battles are held at the amphitheatre.
