The excitement and cheers revive at the El Jem Amphitheater in Tunisia

Numerous amphitheaters built during the ancient Roman Empire.
As entertainment facilities for citizens, thrilling events such as gladiator and lion fights, and chariot races were held.
The Colosseum in Rome, Italy is famous, but here in Tunisia, there is the world's3third largest amphitheater

Erjam Amphitheatre

About 10 km south of the capital, Tunis200kmEl Djem, located here, was once a prosperous province of the Roman Empire.
It was known as the granary of Rome and was an important trading city centered around olives.
The museum displays numerous mosaics that tell of the rich life of that time.
Unfortunately, due to the impact of numerous battles, most buildings from the Roman Empire era have not survived, but the amphitheater is the only one that remains in good condition.

Major Diameter149m, minor axis124m, height36The arena measures 65 meters in length and 40 meters in width, making it a very large amphitheater.
It is said to be in better condition than the Colosseum in Rome,1979and was registered as a World Heritage Site in the year.

A dynamic arena

As you approach, the amphitheater gradually comes into view.
With no tall buildings around, the large amphitheater stands out prominently.
The contrast with the cityscape creates an unusual atmosphere.
 
Even before entering, I was overwhelmed by its scale, but once inside, its impact was even greater.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, stones were removed and used for mosque construction, so not everything remains.
Nevertheless, it is grand enough to clearly understand that this site was once an amphitheater.

Explore from the perspective of ancient Romans

Inside the amphitheater, you can walk around freely except for some areas.
Take the opportunity to enjoy the amphitheater from the perspective of ancient Romans!

Climbing the steep stairs leads you to the spectator seats.

You can overlook the entire amphitheater, and being close to the sky gives a sense of openness.
Maximum capacity is estimated35,000When full, it must have shown incredible excitement.

The stand seats right next to the arena probablyVIPseat.

bring to mind the scenes of fierce battles.
Not only the sense of presence but also the tension must have been exceptional.

And when you descend into the arena, you have the perspective of a gladiator.

Imagining the sun and the gaze of the audience shining solely on you, with a formidable opponent before you, gives you goosebumps.
A battle where victory makes you a hero, but defeat could cost you your life. What thoughts did the gladiator standing before the door leading to the arena hold?
You can also go underground in the arena, where there are waiting rooms for gladiators and animals.
 

Impressive Roman architecture

The highlights are not limited to the arena.
The architecture of the concourse of the amphitheater is also very impressive.
It is a structure where stones are stacked, arch-shaped columns are created at the top, these columns are connected to form a layer, and additional layers are built on top.

All of these tasks were carried out manually, and it is said that it took20years to complete.
You can feel the wisdom, passion, and the culmination of efforts of the ancient Romans.

The amphitheater of El Djem, which can be visited as a day trip from the capital Tunis.
It is a place where the excitement and cheers that the ancient Romans might have felt come back to life.
Please enjoy this historical heritage that boasts grandeur and beauty.