Amphitheatre of El Jem
Kasserine
The Amphitheatre of El Jem, located in the town of El Djem in Tunisia, is one of the largest and best-preserved Roman stone amphitheatres in the world. Constructed in the early 3rd century AD under the Roman proconsul Gordian, it could accommodate approximately 35,000 spectators, making it second only to the Colosseum in Rome in size. The amphitheatre was primarily used for gladiatorial contests and small-scale chariot races, reflecting the social and cultural life of Roman North Africa. Over the centuries, the structure remained largely intact until the 17th century when stones were removed for local building projects, including the Great Mosque in Kairouan. Despite this, the amphitheatre's grandeur and architectural ingenuity endure, with features such as underground alleys and porticos still visible. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, it also serves as a venue for the annual El Djem International Symphony Festival, blending ancient history with contemporary culture. The surrounding region, once the Roman city of Thysdrus, was a prosperous center for olive oil production and craft industries, underscoring the amphitheatre's role within a thriving urban environment.
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Astuce: Visit during spring or autumn to avoid the intense heat of Tunisian summers. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during the El Djem International Symphony Festival. Guided tours provide valuable historical context. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. The site is accessible via the A1 motorway and by train on the Tunis-Gabès line.
Faits intéressants
- •The Amphitheatre of El Jem could seat about 35,000 spectators, making it the third largest Roman amphitheatre after the Colosseum and the theatre of Capua.
- •The amphitheatre was mainly used for gladiator shows and small-scale chariot races.
- •Stones from the amphitheatre were used in the 17th century to build the nearby village of El Djem and the Great Mosque in Kairouan.
- •The amphitheatre hosts the annual El Djem International Symphony Festival, blending ancient architecture with modern culture.
Histoire
The amphitheatre was built in the early 3rd century AD during the Roman period when Thysdrus was a prosperous city rivaling Carthage and Hadrumetum.
It was commissioned under the proconsul Gordian, who briefly became emperor in 238 AD.
The city suffered sacking by Roman forces loyal to Emperor Maximinus Thrax after a failed revolt.
Despite this, the amphitheatre remained largely intact for centuries, only losing stones from the 17th century onward for nearby construction.
It was recognized as a World Heritage Site in 1979, highlighting its historical and architectural importance.
Guide du lieu
Arena and Spectator Seatingearly 3rd century AD
The central arena where gladiatorial contests and chariot races took place, surrounded by tiered seating designed to accommodate up to 35,000 spectators, showcasing Roman engineering prowess.
Underground Alleys and Porticosearly 3rd century AD
These structural features beneath and around the arena facilitated the movement of gladiators, animals, and stage machinery, demonstrating advanced Roman architectural techniques.
Entrance and Facadeearly 3rd century AD
The amphitheatre's impressive entrance and exterior walls remain a testament to Roman monumental architecture, featuring robust stone construction and arches.
Contact
Téléphone: 73 630 093