Amphitheatre of El Jem
Colosseum 2010
Location: El Jem, Tunisia
Year of Inscription: 1979
Criteria: (iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi) to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The Amphitheatre of El Jem is a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre located in the town of El Jem in Tunisia. Built in the 3rd century AD, it is one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in the world and is considered to be one of the most impressive examples of Roman architecture in Africa. The amphitheatre is a testament to the wealth and power of the Roman Empire in North Africa.
Prominent Features: The Amphitheatre of El Jem is an impressive example of Roman architecture and engineering, with many notable features including:
History: The Amphitheatre of El Jem was built in the 3rd century AD by the Roman Empire, during a period of expansion and conquest in North Africa. It was used for gladiator battles, animal hunts, and other public spectacles until the decline of the Roman Empire in the 5th century AD. After this period, the amphitheatre was abandoned and fell into disrepair, but was later restored in the 20th century.
Fun Fact: The Amphitheatre of El Jem was used as a filming location for the 2000 film "Gladiator," starring Russell Crowe.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can take a guided tour of the amphitheatre to learn about its history and architecture, explore the underground passages, and even walk onto the arena floor. The nearby El Jem Archaeological Museum is also worth a visit, with exhibits of Roman artifacts and mosaics.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for adults is 10 Tunisian dinars (about 4 USD), and the fee for children under 12 is 1 Tunisian dinar (less than 1 USD).
How to Reach It: The Amphitheatre of El Jem is located in the town of El Jem, which is approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) south of Tunis. It can be reached by car or bus from Tunis, with a journey time of around 2-3 hours. Buses also run from other major cities in Tunisia, including Sousse and Sfax.
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses located in the town of El Jem, including the Hotel El Medina and the Hotel Kheops. Alternatively, visitors can stay in nearby cities such as Sousse or Monastir, which have a wider range of accommodation options.
Next Stop: Kairouan
Year of Inscription: 1979
Criteria: (iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi) to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The Amphitheatre of El Jem is a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre located in the town of El Jem in Tunisia. Built in the 3rd century AD, it is one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in the world and is considered to be one of the most impressive examples of Roman architecture in Africa. The amphitheatre is a testament to the wealth and power of the Roman Empire in North Africa.
Prominent Features: The Amphitheatre of El Jem is an impressive example of Roman architecture and engineering, with many notable features including:
- Seating Capacity: The amphitheatre had a seating capacity of up to 35,000 spectators, making it one of the largest in the world.
- Underground Passages: The amphitheatre has a network of underground passages that were used to transport animals and gladiators to the arena.
- Elaborate Facade: The facade of the amphitheatre is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures, including depictions of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures.
- Arena: The arena itself is an impressive feat of engineering, with a system of trapdoors and elevators that were used to transport animals and gladiators to the surface.
History: The Amphitheatre of El Jem was built in the 3rd century AD by the Roman Empire, during a period of expansion and conquest in North Africa. It was used for gladiator battles, animal hunts, and other public spectacles until the decline of the Roman Empire in the 5th century AD. After this period, the amphitheatre was abandoned and fell into disrepair, but was later restored in the 20th century.
Fun Fact: The Amphitheatre of El Jem was used as a filming location for the 2000 film "Gladiator," starring Russell Crowe.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can take a guided tour of the amphitheatre to learn about its history and architecture, explore the underground passages, and even walk onto the arena floor. The nearby El Jem Archaeological Museum is also worth a visit, with exhibits of Roman artifacts and mosaics.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for adults is 10 Tunisian dinars (about 4 USD), and the fee for children under 12 is 1 Tunisian dinar (less than 1 USD).
How to Reach It: The Amphitheatre of El Jem is located in the town of El Jem, which is approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) south of Tunis. It can be reached by car or bus from Tunis, with a journey time of around 2-3 hours. Buses also run from other major cities in Tunisia, including Sousse and Sfax.
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses located in the town of El Jem, including the Hotel El Medina and the Hotel Kheops. Alternatively, visitors can stay in nearby cities such as Sousse or Monastir, which have a wider range of accommodation options.
Next Stop: Kairouan
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