Arena of Verona

Arena of Verona

Introduction

The Arena of Verona (Anfiteatro Arena) is located near Piazza Bra in the city center. It is the second-largest amphitheater in Italy after Rome’s, and is a remnant of an ancient Roman-era circular theater. The word “Arena” in Latin means “a place for hosting grand gatherings and events.” Built in the 1st century AD, the amphitheater still retains its original appearance to this day. The entire ancient Roman theater is oval-shaped, with a long diameter of 152 meters, a short diameter of 128 meters, and a height of 30 meters. It can accommodate over 30,000 people. Inside the arena, climbing up to the viewing platform allows you to take in the full view of the amphitheater and the surrounding cityscape.

Since 1913, traditional open-air opera performances have been held here every year from July to September. Thousands of opera enthusiasts gather in Verona during this period to celebrate this annual event and enjoy world-famous operas such as Carmen, Tosca, and Turandot. Notable attendees have included Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, among others. Transportation: Located near Piazza Bra, it is a 10-minute walk from the train station; accessible by buses 11, 12, and 51. Ticket Information / Opening Hours: Opening hours: Summer (8:15 AM–3:30 PM); Winter (8:00 AM–7:15 PM). Closed on Mondays when there are no opera performances.

Admission for sightseeing is €3.1 per person, or €1 on the first Sunday of each month. Tickets for outdoor opera performances vary depending on the show and seat category. Seats are divided into five levels: first and second-class seats are directly opposite the stage, third-class seats are around the first and second levels, and fourth and fifth-class seats are on the furthest stone steps. No assigned seating is provided for the fourth and fifth-class sections.

Verona, Italy