Anfiteatro Romano di Lecce (Roman Amphitheater of Lecce), Lecce (must see)

In the heart of Lecce, in the Sant'Oronzo Square (Piazza Sant'Oronzo) is the ancient Amphitheater of Lupiae. Once the scene of animal fights, gladiatorial contests, and other extravaganzas, the theatre was unearthed in 1906 while digging the foundations for a bank. It remains difficult to date, but most likely it was built during the reign of Augustus.

Restorations like the portico were added in the time of Hadrian. In the 11th century, parts of the amphitheater were removed and used for fortifications. Pieces have been traced to the Cathedral of Otranto. Circa the 15th century, the last remains above ground went into the foundations of the Isola del Goveratore complex of Lecce.

The amphitheater takes the form of a circus ellipse, measuring 335 feet by 269 feet. It is built of square blocks of Lecce stone and cement. The great stones supported the stepped seating, the lower ambulatory, and the radial tunnels leading to the arena.

The basic ground plan divided the structure into four sections, providing four entrances. Twenty-four pillars out of the original 68 arches still stand. The perimeter gallery had a portico. A strip of reliefs depicting hunting scenes and exotic animals ran along the parapet of the arena. It could have seated as many as 15,000 people.

On February 1st, 1906, the Roman Amphitheater was registered as an Italian "National Monument." It currently is often used for concerts and events.