The Roman Theater in Amman is one of the theaters that were designed to show theatrical plays and grand performances of gladiators and wild animals, listening to and reading poetry, music, discussions or lectures, and dance performances accompanying the music, in addition to attending circus shows such as the famous Circus Maximus, which was built on a larger scale to host chariot races.

The Roman Amphitheater is considered one of the most prominent archaeological monuments in Amman and the remainder of the Roman heritage in the Levant region. It was built by the Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius between the years 138-161. It was also built according to a unique architectural style, as the Romans practiced various forms of sports and theatrical arts in it. It provides entertainment for citizens, so during this article we will review the most important information about this rich place.

Roman Theater in Amman

The Roman Empire preserved the Greek heritage in the arts of architecture, and they benefited from Greek engineers in Roman buildings later, and they excelled in adding their touches to the architecture that they created during their rule. The Roman leader Pompey was also able in the year 63 BC to impose Roman control over the countries of the eastern sea. The Mediterranean Sea, in addition to giving the ten Greek cities special attention, thus granting them autonomy in governance, and providing them with the services of the Roman army for defense purposes.

When was the Roman theater restored?

It is believed that the severe earthquake that struck the city of Amman and other Levantine regions in 1927 was one of the main reasons for the demolition of a large part of it, especially since its facade was high. Therefore, the amphitheater was restored approximately ten years ago, in addition to the area surrounding it in the Hashemite Square, which is being held. It includes concerts and poetry seminars.

How was the Roman theater built?

The Roman Theater in Amman was built in a circular shape, using huge stones, and was divided into 3 sections. It also includes 8 roads that connect the first and second sections for the audience to cross, while the third connects to 5 roads, as the theater can accommodate approximately 10,000 spectators for anyone to enjoy. A visitor visits the popular exhibits at the museum in the center of beautiful Amman. The Roman amphitheater was used for theatrical and singing performances due to the quality of its sound system. It is also used to this day for artistic performances, as it is considered larger than the Southern Theater in Jerash, which can accommodate only 4,000 to 5,000 spectators.

There are many options available for visitors to enjoy this place, including the following:

• Take a lot of pictures of the views while walking around the amphitheatre.
• View traditional clothing and learn about folk life in Jordan, in addition to the museum including popular exhibits.
• Possibility of walking around the Hashemite Square.
• Enjoy the popular food available in restaurants and cafes.

Features of Roman theater 

This Roman Theater in Amman has many features that tourists can enjoy while visiting the theater, and among these features are the following:

• The Roman Theater is considered the largest theater in Jordan, and it is also one of the largest Roman theaters spread in the world.
• There is a certain aspect of the Roman theater through which the audience can hear the sound coming from it clearly in all the theater stands.
• There are rooms behind the stage that were used by actors to change their clothes before appearing on stage.
• The height of the theater platform building is approximately 3 floors, meaning that it is higher than the columns of Forum Square.
• There are two small museums on either side of the theater, and it simulates the development of the life of the Jordanian population and displays the traditional costumes of Jordanian and Palestinian cities.
• The amphitheaters were used for gladiatorial fights and chariot races.

Activities that can be done in the Roman Theater