Roman amphitheater Merida Free 3D model

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The Merida Amphitheater lies adjacent to the theater itself, according to monumental inscriptions etched into the stadium seats. Records indicate that construction began circa 8 BC The building's design cleverly incorporates the existing slope of the land, capable of seating approximately 15,000 spectators in a nearly elliptical structure measuring 126 by 102 meters. Made from a sturdy blend of concrete, masonry, and granite stone, the amphitheater remains a testament to its architectural prowess. Accessible through an entrance door situated eastward of the theater, this structure forgoes grand entrance archways altogether. Meanwhile, a row of 16 evenly spaced coverings for the galleries – also known as vomitoria – interrupts the otherwise sleek facade at set intervals. As you make your way into the amphitheater via its entrance corridor, observe two door lintels on either side that provide access to the stadium's stands: one intended for high-ranking officials and another directly across from it, where the editors of the games can be found. Like the nearby theater, the Merida Amphitheater features three caveas – the topmost of which lies in ruins. Situated atop a high masonry platform that boasts an intricately crafted cornice, the sandy playing area within the amphitheater is lined with rows of marble slabs that serve to further beautify this architectural marvel. In a stunning example of deliberate design, the elevated podium running through the center of the arena – effectively separating it from the stands above – is punctuated by two grand archways situated at opposite ends. These entrances in turn give way to extended vaulted passageways, lined on both sides with hidden rooms nestled below the stadium seats whose fate has yet to be uncovered by historians and archaeologists alike. Completing the scenic landscape of this majestic amphitheater is a small moat likely utilized as a storage space for various performance items such as cages housing ferocious beasts.