Roman Stadium Guide
Unearth the Past: Discover the Ancient Roman Stadium of Plovdiv Guide
Step back in time and witness the grandeur of the Roman Empire at the Ancient Roman Stadium of Plovdiv. This remarkably preserved stadium, hidden beneath the modern city, offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of this ancient settlement. Imagine the roar of the crowd as athletes competed in thrilling contests, a spectacle that once captivated the hearts of thousands. Built during the reign of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, the Roman Stadium of Plovdiv was a magnificent structure capable of holding up to 30,000 spectators. It was primarily used for athletic competitions, including gladiatorial combats, wrestling matches, and running races. The stadium remained in use for several centuries, witnessing the rise and fall of empires and the changing fortunes of the city. Rediscovered in the 20th century, the stadium has been partially excavated and restored, allowing visitors to experience its former glory. Today, visitors can explore the excavated section of the stadium, marveling at the impressive architecture and imagining the events that once unfolded within its walls. Informative displays provide insights into the history of the stadium and the lives of the athletes who competed there. While you can't participate in gladiatorial combats (thankfully!), you can certainly soak up the atmosphere and appreciate the scale of this ancient monument. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly linked to the stadium, the surrounding area offers a variety of restaurants serving traditional Bulgarian dishes.
Transportation
The Roman Stadium is located in the heart of Plovdiv's pedestrian zone, making it easily accessible on foot. If you are coming from outside the city center, you can take bus lines 1, 6, 9, 10, 15, 17, 20, 21, 26, 27, 29, 36, 37, 44, 93, and 99 to stops near the city center and walk a short distance to the stadium. Taxis are also readily available.