Capua Historic Center
Explore Italy's second-largest Roman amphitheater, a tranquil historical gem with atmospheric underground tunnels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Capua Historic Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Italy's second-largest Roman amphitheater, a tranquil historical gem with atmospheric underground tunnels.
"Second only to the Colosseum, but with no crowds – a truly special historical experience."
🤫 Seek Out the Quiet
Enjoy the amphitheater with minimal crowds, allowing for a more personal historical experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Underground
Don't miss the atmospheric tunnels beneath the arena floor for a unique perspective.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Capua Amphitheater
Santa Maria Capua Vetere
Second largest Roman amphitheater, offering a tranquil exploration of ancient gladiator history.
Underground Tunnels
Capua Amphitheater
Atmospheric passages beneath the arena floor, providing a cool escape and a unique historical perspective.
Gladiator Museum
Capua Amphitheater
A small museum offering insights into the lives of gladiators and the history of the amphitheater.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Capua's Amphitheater
Discover Ancient Gladiator History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Seek Out the Quiet
Enjoy the amphitheater with minimal crowds, allowing for a more personal historical experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Underground
Don't miss the atmospheric tunnels beneath the arena floor for a unique perspective.
🏛️ Second to None
Discover Italy's second-largest amphitheater, a historical marvel often overlooked.
🚆 Plan Train Travel
Check regional train schedules in advance for smooth travel to Capua.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Seek Out the Quiet
Enjoy the amphitheater with minimal crowds, allowing for a more personal historical experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Underground
Don't miss the atmospheric tunnels beneath the arena floor for a unique perspective.
🏛️ Second to None
Discover Italy's second-largest amphitheater, a historical marvel often overlooked.
🚆 Plan Train Travel
Check regional train schedules in advance for smooth travel to Capua.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Capua Amphitheater's impressive scale and historical significance, often comparing it favorably to the Colosseum for its lack of crowds and freedom to explore. The atmospheric underground tunnels are a particular highlight, offering a unique and immersive experience. While generally well-preserved, some minor upkeep could enhance the visitor experience.
"The place is a fascinating destination for history lovers, featuring the impressive ancient amphitheater, second only to Rome’s Colosseum. Walking among the ruins and archways gives a vivid sense of Roman life and gladiatorial history. A must-see for archaeology and culture enthusiasts."
Mohammad omer
"This place is well worth a visit or a detour as we did. It does not seem to be anywhere as well known as the Colossium in Rome despite being only 2nd in size to it. Most of the time we were the only ones around. You are free to rome around the site at your leisure which is wonderful. Walking through the tunnels underneath is very atmospheric and also a cooling break from the sun."
Andrew Hilson
"This is the 2nd largest roman amphitheatre. What makes this a great place to visit is that you can access the underground part of the amphitheatre. It's a special experience to walk under the arena. The amphitheatre is also reasonably intact, and you get an impression of the size and how tall it was. Next to Anfiteatro Campano is about 20% of the foundation of an older amphitheatre, which is where spartacus was a gladiator.
There is also a small gladiator museum."
Lars F Clausen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Capua Historic Center, particularly the Amphitheater, is located in Santa Maria Capua Vetere. You can reach it by regional train from Naples or Caserta. Some travelers recommend checking train schedules in advance as departures can be infrequent.
While specific parking details can vary, driving to Santa Maria Capua Vetere is an option. However, many visitors opt for public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, Capua is easily accessible as a day trip from Naples by regional train, making it a convenient historical excursion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Admission fees are generally reasonable, especially considering the historical significance and the lack of crowds. Check official sources for current pricing.
Due to its status as a less crowded site, booking tickets in advance is usually not necessary. You can typically purchase them upon arrival.
Access to the underground tunnels is usually included with your general admission ticket to the amphitheater.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the Capua Amphitheater, the second-largest Roman amphitheater. You can also explore its atmospheric underground passages and visit a small gladiator museum.
While the main arena level is generally accessible, the underground tunnels may present challenges for those with significant mobility issues. It's advisable to inquire locally about specific accessibility.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the amphitheater, including the underground sections and the museum.
While not as common as at larger sites, inquire locally or check for independent guides who may offer tours, especially during peak season.
The Capua Amphitheater is located in Santa Maria Capua Vetere, which corresponds to the ancient Roman city of Capua. The modern city of Capua is a separate municipality nearby.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Santa Maria Capua Vetere offers several dining options, from local trattorias to pizzerias. You can find places serving traditional Campanian cuisine.
Expect delicious regional Italian food, including pasta dishes, pizzas, and local specialties. TikTok creators have highlighted spots for schiacciata and fried appetizers.
While there might be limited options directly at the site, nearby cafes in Santa Maria Capua Vetere are readily available for refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the grandeur of the arena from various angles, the intricate details of the underground passages, and panoramic views from the upper levels.
Yes, photography is generally allowed within the amphitheater complex for personal use. Be mindful of any specific restrictions in museum areas.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the underground sections might be a bit dark, they are generally safe and offer a cool escape on a warm day. The small gladiator museum can also provide engaging visuals for younger visitors interested in history.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
The site's connection to Spartacus and his rebellion adds another layer of historical intrigue.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
As a less crowded destination, solo visitors can easily navigate the site at their own pace, taking in the history and atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Spectacle of Capua's Amphitheater
One of the most captivating aspects of visiting the Capua Amphitheater is the opportunity to explore its underground passages. These subterranean tunnels, known as the hypogeum, were used to house gladiators, animals, and stage machinery. Walking through these atmospheric corridors provides a unique and often cooler perspective on the amphitheater's operational complexity.
Beyond the main structure, the site also holds significance as the location where Spartacus and his fellow gladiators initiated their famous revolt.
Navigating Capua: Travel and Local Flavors
Once in Santa Maria Capua Vetere, the amphitheater is generally accessible. For those arriving by car, parking is available, though public transport is often recommended to bypass potential parking challenges.
When it comes to food, the region boasts delicious Campanian cuisine. TikTok creators have highlighted local eateries serving specialties like schiacciata (a type of focaccia) and tempting fried appetizers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit