(map) S.Maria Capua Vetere
Italian schoolchildren learn that the “fleshpots of Capua” defeated Hannibal because the opulent lifestyle in the city made the Carthaginians soft. The affluent Capuans left behind an amphitheater that today is the second largest in Italy next to the Roman Coliseum.
The amphitheater once held up to 60,000 spectators and admitted both men and women for free, making the games extremely popular. The famed Spartacus first distinguished himself here and Capua boasted the best gladiator schools.
The visitor can roam the field, the vaulted corridors, and the underground tunnels that stored elaborate stage machinery and exotic caged animals. The Gladiator museum pays tribute to those who fought… and to those who died here.
Secret tip: At the entrance gate, ask to see the underground Mithraeum (Temple of Mithras) too. Someone will fetch the key and open up for you. Note coming soon!
Barbara Zaragoza lives in Naples, Italy with her husband and three children. When she’s not exploring the ancient ruins of the Campania region, she devotes her time to writing fiction. You can find her blog about the food and nooks of Naples at: theespressobreak.blogspot.com
June 25th, 2009 at 4:06 pm
Loved this and then read all of your blog, Barbara. I cannot find your brief biography listed in “Contributors”, however. (I lived up above the Solfatera for a couple of years, loved going to the fish market, loved the people, the pizza, and the gelato. I miss Pozzuoli and Italy very much).
June 25th, 2009 at 5:45 pm
This country never ceases to amaze!