Domitian Stadium under Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona in Rome is one of the city’s most picturesque sites. Beneath its Baroque surface it is hiding the ruins of the Domitian Stadium. Built in 86 AD during Emperor Domitian’s reign. It hosted mainly bloodless athletic competitions such as races, wrestling, and boxing. Those games were less popular than the gladiatorial games at the Colosseum or chariot races in Circus Maximus. The structure could accommodate about 30,000 spectators and measured approximately 275 by 106 meters.
Today’s Piazza Navona was established on the foundations of the Domitian Stadium. Its oval shape directly reflects the stadium’s ancient contours. Name „Navona” likely derives from the Latin „agones” (games), evolving over time to its current form. Stadium’s remnants, included on UNESCO World Heritage List, are open for public. Building is located 4.5 meters below the current street level.
Visit
Entry costs 9 euros. Every visitor receives an audio guide, included in the ticket price. The ruins are open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM. It is worth to plan around 30-40 minutes at this archeological site. There is no need to book the visit in advance, the stadium is not crowded. Entrance is located at Via di Tor Sanguigna 3. Interestingly, the venue can be rented for private events such as dinners or concerts. More information is available on its official website.
After visiting, a stop at Two Sizes is recommended to try their famous tiramisu. Served in two sizes and various flavors as classic, caramel, peanut butter, strawberry and pistachio. You can enjoy it while admiring Bernini’s nearby Four Rivers Fountain. This location was featured in the film „Eat Pray Love” with Julia Roberts eating ice creams.
For more articles on Rome, check out Vicus Caprarius, Case Romane del Celio, Via Appia Antica, Basilica of San Clemente, Palazzo Colonna czy La Scatola Archeologica.