(M. Valentini) – Maybe not everyone knows that, under the baroque square of Piazza Navona in Rome, the remains of the Stadium of Domitian can still be admired.
Actually, the Stadium was built by the Emperor Domitian (Titus Flavius Domitianus), who reigned from 81 to 96 AD. He was the son of the Emperor Vespasianus and younguer brother of Titus.
The Stadium was built at the Campus Martius, near the Theater of Pompey. Based on the Greek models, it was mostly used for athletic competions, that’s why it was also known as Circus Agonalis, from where the name Piazza Navona comes from. The Stadium had approximately 15,000 – 20,000 seats.
Here below, some pictures of the ancient Stadium taken by me.
Model of the Domitian’s Stadium
Stadium’s gate
Underground remains
Underground remains
Stadium’s gate
Stadium’s Arch
Stadium’s pavé
Stadium’s remains
Stadium’s remains
Stadium’s steps
Inscription
Statue found during the exavations
Remains of statue
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