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Description
The Arena di Verona is one of the most impressive ancient monuments remaining in Italy. Built around 30 AD, this Roman amphitheater is located in the heart of Verona, in Piazza Bra. Despite its nearly two-thousand-year history, the arena remains a functioning venue and is renowned worldwide as a venue for large-scale concerts, festivals, and opera productions.
In terms of size, the amphitheater is the fourth largest Roman arena in Italy, surpassed only by the Colosseum and several other major structures. The Arena di Verona is striking in its state of preservation: its historical value was recognized in 2000 when it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the ensemble of ancient Verona. Thanks to its unique acoustics and architecture, the amphitheater has become a symbol of the city and the country's most important cultural venue.
The arena has a turbulent history. Initially, it served as a venue for gladiator fights, circus performances, and even simulated naval battles. After the devastating earthquake of 1117, the outer walls were partially destroyed, and the stone was used for city buildings. In the Middle Ages, public executions, tournaments, and fairs were held here, and in the 18th and 19th centuries, bullfights were held here. A new era began in 1913, when the Arena di Verona became a permanent stage for opera performances, which have become a summer tradition.
Today, the amphitheater continues to play an important role in the cultural life of Italy. In addition to annual opera festivals and concerts featuring world-famous stars, the Arena di Verona will host the closing ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics and the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Paralympic Games.
If you're planning to attend an opera, concert, or other exciting event at the Arena di Verona, you can buy tickets to events taking place at this legendary venue on our website.