Located in the heart of Trieste is the ancient Teatro Romano. Dating back to the 1st Century AD it was built by Quintus Petronius Modestus, a statesman during the reign of Emperor Trajan (who was step-father to Hadrian).
The Roman Theatre is nestled at the foot of the hill of San Giusto whose slope provided a natural setting for the amphitheater. At first it doesn’t seem so large, but up close, it is impressive. The theatre once had a fixed elaborate proscenium with ornate statues and openings which looked out on the sea. Yes, in Roman times, the sea reached inland as far as the Teatro Romano. (See the video by the Comune di Trieste below).
The seating area is divided into 4 main sections by 5 sets of steps and was on 3 levels of which only the lower remains. It had an estimated capacity of somewhere between 3,500-6,000 spectators. The theater was first discovered in 1814 by the architect Piero Nobile but unearthed only in 1938 during the demolition of buildings which had been erected on top and had concealed it for centuries.
Today you can “travel back” to Roman times and attend concerts and performances in the amphitheater. Information is available at the tourist information office in nearby Piazza dell’Unità.
The theater is in the heart of Trieste’s old town. Parking is available on the street or in the car-park next door.
Open 24 hrs
TEATRO ROMANO
Via del Teatro Romano, 3, 34121 Trieste TS
Tel. 040 347 8312
