Theatre of Marcellus

The Theatre of Marcellus was a theater in ancient Rome, as the residence continues to exist until today. Even Julius Caesar had acquired the land in the north of the vegetable market (forum Holitorium ) in close proximity to the magnificent temple of Apollo Sosianus. There was Augustus in 13 BC to build the completed building, which was dedicated to his recently deceased nephew 10 years and designated successor Marcellus. For the construction of two smaller temples had to be demolished, which were probably consecrated the pietas and of Diana. Unlike the Greek theater of Marcellus was not built on a mountain slope, but was free (buildings). The approximately 33 -meter-high building from Roman travertine from Tivoli and Opus caementitium was the model for the construction of the Colosseum, developed later. It was after seats, the largest theater in the city of Rome and offered about 10,000 to 15,000 spectators.

End of the 4th century AD, began the decline. The theater was increasingly - how many public buildings of ancient Rome - used as a quarry. However, the parts still obtained were used as a living room Sometime during the Middle Ages. In the first two rows of arcades was built homes.

In the 13th century, the Savelli family had rebuilt the theater into a fortress. Later, probably in the 16th century, it fell into the possession of the Roman Orsini. This built around the complex in the Renaissance style and supported the facade parts by stabilizing walls from. Even today this state is preserved and today the theater is inhabited. Due to its central location it is even to very prestigious Roman city apartments.

From 1926 to 1932, numerous additions were eliminated at the theater and the facade was exposed to the ancient street level again. The proscenium was not exposed, but is documented by the formatter Urbis Romae.

Side view: One can well distinguish the ancient arcades of the superstructure

Detail on the front

Front on the north side