Imagine exploring an ancient Roman amphitheatre without the tourist crowds! 

Just a short train ride south of Rome, stands the second largest amphitheatre in Italy; Amphitheatre of Ancient Capua or Anfiteatro Campano, an important monument of Imperial Roman times.

Amphitheatre of Ancient Capua

The amphitheater at Santa Maria Capua Vetere, located between Rome and Naples, is a remarkable archaeological site, historically significant for its immense size as the second largest amphitheater in Italy, surpassed only by the Colosseum.

This ancient structure built between the 1st and 2nd century AD, stands as a testament to the town's importance during the era of Roman Imperialism. The town of Capua, with its strategic location, was a pivotal centre in ancient times, and the famed Via Appia Antica, one of Rome's earliest and most crucial roads, was originally constructed to connect Rome with Capua.

The Amphitheatre and Archeological Museum of Santa Maria Capua Vetere

The history of the ancient city can be explored in the Archaeological Museum, which spans from the Bronze Age to the first century BC. The Roman era marked a period of notable prestige for the city.

Ancient Capua was also the location of the first and most famous gladiator school and was renowned for its famed gladiators, including Spartacus, who led a significant slave uprising against the Roman Republic.

The Amphitheatre of Santa Maria Capua Vetere c. 100 AD

Street art in the historic centre of Santa Maria Capua Vetere

19th Century buildings and the Garibaldi Theatre in Santa Maria Capua Vetere

In 1862 the town centre of Santa Maria, situated nearby the ancient sites, changed its name to Santa Maria Capua Vetere (Capua Vetere meaning Ancient Capua) to emphasise the important ancient roots of the area.

The vibrant historic centre is adorned with exquisite 19th-century palaces, an opulent theatre, and grand piazzas.

The bustling shopping district along Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi, offers an array of cafes, wine bars, restaurants, and delicatessens, beckoning visitors on a culinary journey through the town.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, SM Capua Vetere

Locals play a game of Bocce, Santa Maria Capua Vetere,

Despite the town's profound historical, architectural and cultural significance, Santa Maria Capua Vetere and its ancient sites remain virtually undiscovered by tourists, an astonishing fact considering the monumental importance and rich history encapsulated in this captivating location.

Click here to view more images of Santa Maria Capua Vetere and the Amphitheater Campano - all images available for Rights Managed licensing through my online archive.

Words and photographs copyright © Susan Wright

Please contact the copyright owner if you with to share or publish any photos.

Susan Wright is an editorial and travel photographer based in Rome, Italy

Stock photos Santa Maria Capua Vetere, Amphitheater

santa maria capua vetere amphitheater stock images