Builders: Based on an inscription on the amphitheater itself, it was built privately by Quinctius Valgus and Marcus Porcius. However, this was not the first architectural feat by these men. According to the author August Mau in his book Pompeii: Its Life and Art, the builders, "Valgus and Porcius [were] already known to us as the builders of the small theatre [in Pompeii]" (Mau 212). Some historians have theorized that it was possible the men built the structure to increase their popularity through out Pompeii (Berry 2). Mau, however, claims the construction was actually in honor of the two men getting reelected as duumvirs (Mau 212).
Date: The dating of the amphitheater changes slightly from source to source, fluctuating between 80 and 70 BC. However, most sources claim that the amphitheater was completed by the year 70 BC.
Location: The amphitheater is located in the southeast corner of Pompeii, Italy.
Condition: Although it was buried along with the rest of Pompeii in 79 AD when Mount Vesuvius erupted, the Amphitheater of Pompeii is completely intact. In fact, some shows and concerts have been held in the amphitheater due to its condition.
Interesting Facts: In 59 AD, there was a riot between the people of Pompeii and the near town of Nuceria. As a result, Emperor Nero banned the games in Pompeii for ten years.
Date: The dating of the amphitheater changes slightly from source to source, fluctuating between 80 and 70 BC. However, most sources claim that the amphitheater was completed by the year 70 BC.
Location: The amphitheater is located in the southeast corner of Pompeii, Italy.
Condition: Although it was buried along with the rest of Pompeii in 79 AD when Mount Vesuvius erupted, the Amphitheater of Pompeii is completely intact. In fact, some shows and concerts have been held in the amphitheater due to its condition.
Interesting Facts: In 59 AD, there was a riot between the people of Pompeii and the near town of Nuceria. As a result, Emperor Nero banned the games in Pompeii for ten years.