Highlands Ranch High School - Mr. Sedivy
Highlands Ranch, Colorado

Ancient City of Pompeii

Arcaded Court of the Gladiators, Amphitheatre,
and the Necropolis at Nocera

After 62 A.D. the Arcaded Court was changed into a barracks for gladiators. Weapons were discovered in at least ten rooms, some of which were quite splendid and were undoubtedly intended to be used on parade. Typical helmets, with the top part folded back similar to modern German helmets, had moveable visors that left only the eyes unprotected. The helmets were then covered by a metal mesh. Hilts of swords, leg coverings, and the helmets are all decorated with scenes depicting Greek mythology.

Arcaded Court of the Gladiators

The Amphitheatre was built in 80 B.C. and is considered the oldest known amphitheatre.The arena is at a lower level than the surrounding area and there are no underground passages. There are two main entrances to the arena and the lower level, and the upper levels were reached by external stairways with two ramps.

The Amphitheatre at Pompeii

Spectators entered the Amphitheatre through a vaulted gallery, also known as a crypt, that ran under the end seats of the "media cavea" (middle seating area). At the extreme ends, two well-paved passages for carts and carriages lead directly into the arena. The Amphitheatre also had a linen velarium (large canopy) to protect the visitors from the sun and the heat.

Necropolis of Porta Nocera

Pompeii had a necropolis (cemetery) outside of every gate. The tombs at the Necropolis of Porta Nocera were probably built during the last republican period or during the Imperal age (Julius-Claudius) and are marked by inscriptions and funeral statues made of marble or tuff. In 59 A.D., the same year that Nero killed his mother, Agrippina, there was a fight in the Amphitheatre between Pompeians and Nocerians, resulting in a massacre.

After Nero referred the fact to the Senate, it was decided to ban all similar spectacles for ten years. Those who had provoked the massacre were sent into exile, and associations that were formed against these laws were ordered to disband.

Historical Background of Pompeii - I

Background of Pompeii - II