Ancient Philippopolis Stadium
Jumai Square, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Description:
The ancient stadium "Philippopolis" is one of the largest ancient buildings that have survived to this day. In ancient times, sports competitions, gladiatorial fights and fights with animals were organized here - the famous Pythian, Alexandrian and Kendrisian games.
The stadium was built at the beginning of the second century AD during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, in 117-138, and accommodated up to 30,000 spectators. Today, tourists can see only a small northern part of the structure, which is located on Jumaya Square. Most of Filippopolis is located under the central city street, which makes its full restoration impossible.
On a small square next to the stadium there are shops of local masters and artists, where everyone can choose a souvenir for themselves: a painting, decoration or antique sculpture.