The Arena of Verona, a Roman amphitheatre,
is one of the greatest and most prestigious archaeological monuments
in Europe. Built in the first century AD it has always been a powerful
and suggestive place of entertainment: gladiatorial fights, jousts,
tournaments and nightly games took place against a rich scenic background.
Since the 18th century, theatrical performances have become a constant
feature. Today, the Arena is famous for being the most important
contemporary "archaeological theatre" in Italy.
The yearly summer opera festival is an event that features names
such as Placido Domingo, Jose Carraras and Franco Zeffirelli among
others. The result is always a spectacular season that draws to
Verona every year a cosmopolitan audience of more than half a million
people.
