Teatro di Marcello (Theatre of Marcellus), Rome
In contrast to the dominant and renowned Colosseum, the Theatre of Marcellus maintains a more understated presence, patiently awaiting discovery by true enthusiasts of history and architecture. While the Colosseum may have claimed the title of the largest arena, it is important to note that the Theatre of Marcellus was actually the first-ever amphitheater constructed in Rome and served as a model for the later design of the Colosseum. Unlike its grand counterpart, this theater never witnessed gruesome battles but instead hosted mythological dramas widely popular in ancient Rome.
With a seating capacity of up to 20,000 spectators, the Theatre of Marcellus once reigned as the largest arena in the city. Emperor Augustus officially inaugurated the theater and honored his nephew by bestowing upon it the name Marcellus. However, it was Julius Caesar himself who initiated its construction, although he tragically met his demise before the project could commence. Showcasing the timeless beauty of classical ancient architecture, the structure harmoniously combines three prominent styles of the era 鈥� the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders 鈥� elegantly distributed across its three levels.
Despite the passage of centuries, the theater remains remarkably intact, lending a great deal of charm to the Capitoline Hill. Its significance is further enhanced by its history as a fortress during the 12th century and subsequent transformation into a palazzo in the 16th century. Notably, the upper part of the building has recently been converted into prestigious accommodation, seamlessly blending the ancient with the contemporary. From June to October, the venue also becomes a stage for musical concerts, providing yet another compelling reason to explore this captivating piece of history when the opportunity arises.
With a seating capacity of up to 20,000 spectators, the Theatre of Marcellus once reigned as the largest arena in the city. Emperor Augustus officially inaugurated the theater and honored his nephew by bestowing upon it the name Marcellus. However, it was Julius Caesar himself who initiated its construction, although he tragically met his demise before the project could commence. Showcasing the timeless beauty of classical ancient architecture, the structure harmoniously combines three prominent styles of the era 鈥� the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders 鈥� elegantly distributed across its three levels.
Despite the passage of centuries, the theater remains remarkably intact, lending a great deal of charm to the Capitoline Hill. Its significance is further enhanced by its history as a fortress during the 12th century and subsequent transformation into a palazzo in the 16th century. Notably, the upper part of the building has recently been converted into prestigious accommodation, seamlessly blending the ancient with the contemporary. From June to October, the venue also becomes a stage for musical concerts, providing yet another compelling reason to explore this captivating piece of history when the opportunity arises.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Rome. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Download The 911爆料网 App
Teatro di Marcello (Theatre of Marcellus) on Map
Sight Name: Teatro di Marcello (Theatre of Marcellus)
Sight Location: Rome, Italy (See walking tours in Rome)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Rome, Italy (See walking tours in Rome)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Rome, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Rome
Creating your own self-guided walk in Rome is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Trastevere Walking Tour
Heading down from the Vatican along the River Tiber, one is bound to find yet another city hidden within the city 鈥� Trastevere. This name translates literally to "across the Tiber". Indeed, crossing the picturesque Ponte Sisto (Sisto Bridge) to the west bank, you will find yourself in a charming neighborhood with a distinct character that sets it apart from any other part of Rome.
... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
"Roman Holiday" Movie Walking Tour
Filmed entirely in the heart of Rome, Roman Holiday is one of those timeless films that beckons you to hop on a Vespa and lose yourself in the intoxicating beauty of the Italian capital. Released in 1953, this beloved classic has captured hearts across generations, thanks to its irresistible blend of romance, adventure, and charm鈥攁nchored by two of Hollywood鈥檚 brightest stars, Audrey Hepburn... view more
Tour Duration: 4 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 8.5 Km or 5.3 Miles
Tour Duration: 4 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 8.5 Km or 5.3 Miles
Vatican Walking Tour
Consisting of a walled enclave within the city of Rome, the Vatican is the world鈥檚 smallest sovereign state, as well as a symbol (and headquarters) of the Roman Catholic faith. Although only 44 hectares in surface, one is amazed by the vastness of this place and the sheer size of everything. When gazing around in all directions, you realize how much can be achieved by people working in faith for... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome Walking Tour
Rome has long played host to pilgrims鈥攁fter all, it's home to the Pope, the Catholic Curia, and a treasure trove of relics linked to apostles, saints, and martyrs. Back in the day, the Via Francigena provided a straight shot for the faithful traveling from England to Rome. Upon arrival, it was tradition to visit the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul. When a Jubilee rolled around, the spiritual... view more
Tour Duration: 6 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 17.4 Km or 10.8 Miles
Tour Duration: 6 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 17.4 Km or 10.8 Miles
Fountains and Squares Walking Tour
In Rome there is a lively piazza round almost every corner, each with its own unique atmosphere and its own story to tell. These public squares have been the center of Roman culture for centuries, and some of the city鈥檚 most popular attractions are located within them.
Most piazzas have a fountain in the center and a lot of cafes around. In fact, Rome holds the largest number of fountains in... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Most piazzas have a fountain in the center and a lot of cafes around. In fact, Rome holds the largest number of fountains in... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Rome Shopping Streets Walking Tour
Loved by tourists for its busy fashionable streets and significant baroque icons, the so-called 鈥楾ridente鈥� is one of the Eternal City's most lusted-after areas, formed by Via dei Condotti, Via Borgognona, Via Frattina and the adjacent Via del Corso. It is perhaps the most high-end destination for Roman shopping, with a concentration of renowned jewelers and important Italian/international... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
10 Best Food Markets in Rome Italy
Of all the things Italy is most famous for (cars, music, fashion, movies, etc.), food is, undoubtedly, top of the list. Rome may well not be the whole Italy, but no Italy is whole without Rome... And the Romans, much as all their fellow-Italians, like it "fresco", hence the abundance of...
17 Best Gelaterias in Rome Italy
For ice cream lovers and dabblers this guide is a treasure chest of Rome鈥檚 best gelato shops. There are gelaterias everywhere. Many visitors to Rome only have a few days to explore the city. You owe it to yourself to make the most of your time and find the gelato locals eat. Often the authentic...
Souvenirs Shopping: 15 Authentic Italian Things To Buy in Rome
Rome is the Eternal City and, as such, the list of gift options available here is countless. Whether it's something edible, drinkable, wearable or pleasing to the eye that you want - you will find it all here in abundance. However, if time or budget is the factor, perhaps you might want to...