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Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis: A Glimpse into Roman History

Discover the grandeur of the Roman Empire at the Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis, a historical gem beneath the bustling streets of Plovdiv.

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The Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis, built in the 2nd century AD during the Roman Empire, is a remarkable historical landmark in Plovdiv. Once capable of seating 30,000 spectators, this well-preserved stadium hosted various sporting events and spectacles. Today, visitors can explore the excavated northern section and presentation center, diving into the city's rich Roman heritage.

A brief summary to Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis

Local tips

  • Visit the presentation center to learn about the stadium's history and see a reconstruction of its original appearance.
  • Combine your visit with other Roman sites in Plovdiv, such as the Ancient Theatre and the Bishop's Basilica, for a comprehensive historical experience.
  • Check for special events or performances held at the stadium, especially during the summer months.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Ancient Stadium is located on Plovdiv's main pedestrian street. From the Central Square (Ploshtad Tsentralen), walk north along the pedestrian street (Glavnata). The visible section of the stadium is located at Dzhumaya Square, near the Dzhumaya Mosque. Entrance to the underground level is clearly marked.

  • Public Transport

    From Plovdiv's Central Railway Station, take bus number 12 and get off at the second stop after passing the shopping mall. From the Central Bus Station, exit and walk right to the traffic lights, then follow Ivan Vazov Blvd to Central Square. From there, walk north on the main pedestrian street to Dzhumaya Square. A single bus ticket costs 1 lev.

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The Ancient Stadium of Philippopolis, dating back to the early 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, stands as a testament to Plovdiv's rich Roman past. Located beneath the city's main pedestrian street, its northern end is visible at Dzhumaya Square, offering a unique glimpse into the ancient world. This impressive structure, approximately 240 meters long and 50 meters wide, could accommodate up to 30,000 spectators, hosting gladiatorial contests, athletic competitions, and games similar to the Pythian Games in Greece. During the Roman era, these games evolved into pure entertainment, with cities investing in stadiums, hippodromes, and amphitheaters. The stadium's design features 14 rows of marble seats, with the front rows adorned with stylized lion paws. A vaulted passage under the seats connected the track to a corridor, supporting royal seats above. Today, visitors can explore the excavated northern section at Dzhumaya Square, descending to the stadium's original level. The presentation center offers multimedia information about the stadium's history and architecture. The stadium was proclaimed a national cultural value in 1995, recognizing its historical importance.

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