"Amphitheatre" Top 5 Page for this destination Romans in Chester Tip by sandysmith

This is the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain and held about 7000 people. However only the northern part has been excavated - hence not much to see really. It was used for military practice, gladiator fights and public executions.

Do not be deceived by the remaining low curved wall enclosing the small central arena- the Amphitheatre's massive exterior wall measured 320 by 286 feet (95.7 by 87.2 metres) and stood 40 feet (11.5 metres) above the Roman street level, around twice the average present height of the city walls- you would have had to crane your neck to see the top! The interior wall facing the arena stood twelve feet high and the arena itself measured 190 by 160 feet (58 by 49.4 metres: an area of 2230 sq m).

Update Sept. 2004 - local source informs me that excavations are currently been undertaken on the ampitheatre so hopefully more more will be visible soon!!

Address: Little Saint John Street . near the wall
Directions: Access from near to the city walls.