Roman Theatre of Trieste
Friuli Venezia Giulia
The Roman Theatre of Trieste, located at the foot of San Giusto hill near the old town center, is a remarkable archaeological site dating from the late 1st century BC. Originally situated outside the city walls and by the sea, the theatre took advantage of the natural slope of the hill to create its seating area, which could accommodate between 3,500 and 6,000 spectators. It was expanded in the early 2nd century AD, possibly under the patronage of Quintus Petronius Modestus, a local procurator and priest of Emperor Trajan. The theatre's cavea surrounds the orchestra and is divided vertically by five stairways and horizontally by corridors. A massive semicircular retaining wall once supported the stage building, which featured a rectangular scene with pillars and five doors. The proscenium was likely adorned with statues and niches and originally overlooked the sea, which reached the theatre's location in Roman times. Over centuries, the theatre was obscured by buildings and was rediscovered only in 1814 by architect Pietro Nobile, with significant excavations and restoration occurring in 1938. Today, it stands as the most notable Roman ruin in Trieste, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's ancient cultural life and architectural mastery.
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Tip: Visitors can view the Roman Theatre from the outside at any time. Access to the interior requires prior approval via email to the local Superintendence of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape of Friuli Venezia Giulia. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the outdoor site is more enjoyable. Nearby antiquariums and the early Christian basilica offer additional archaeological insights and are open on specific days or by appointment. Entry to all these sites is free, and visitors are encouraged to check opening hours and reserve access in advance to enhance their experience.
Interesting facts
- •The theatre could originally seat between 3,500 and 6,000 spectators, a considerable size for an ancient Roman theatre.
- •It was built to take advantage of the natural slope of San Giusto hill, following Greek architectural tradition for theatres.
- •The proscenium was richly decorated with statues and niches and overlooked the sea, which once reached the theatre’s location.
- •The theatre was buried under later buildings and only rediscovered in the early 19th century, with major excavations in 1938.
- •Statues and inscriptions found during excavations are preserved at the Lapidary Museum in San Giusto Castle.
History
The Roman Theatre of Trieste was constructed in the late 1st century BC during the Roman Republic period, when the city was known as Tergeste.
It was built outside the city walls near the sea, utilizing the natural slope of San Giusto hill.
The theatre was expanded in the early 2nd century AD, likely under the influence of Quintus Petronius Modestus during Emperor Trajan's reign.
Over time, the theatre was buried beneath newer urban development and forgotten until its rediscovery in 1814.
Major excavations in 1938 revealed the structure, which has since been preserved as a significant Roman archaeological site reflecting Trieste's ancient heritage.
Place Guide
Cavea (Seating Area)Late 1st century BC
The cavea is the semicircular seating area of the theatre, built into the natural slope of San Giusto hill. It is divided vertically by five stairways and horizontally by corridors, designed to accommodate thousands of spectators.
Stage Building (Scaenae Frons)Early 2nd century AD
The stage building is a large semicircular retaining wall supporting the scene, featuring a rectangular stage with pillars and five doorways. The proscenium was decorated with statues and niches, creating a grand visual effect.
Antiquarium of Via di Donota
An archaeological museum located behind the theatre, housing finds from the excavations, including statues and inscriptions. It is set within a medieval tower of the city walls.
Antiquarium of Via del Seminario
Another exhibition space displaying remains of late Republican city walls and other Roman artifacts.
Early Christian BasilicaEarly Christian period
Ruins of a paleochristian basilica near the theatre, representing the religious history of the area.
Contact
Phone: 040 347 8312
