The Roman Theater, Volterra, Italy.
The main features of Roman theater derive in principle from those of Greek theater, since Roman architecture itself derives directly from Greek architecture of the Hellenistic period.
The first theaters were built of wood. They were overthrown after the event for which it was raised was completed. A law prevented the construction of permanent theaters. Thus, in 55 BC the Pompey Theater was erected with a temple in order to circumvent the legal fence.
Over time, Roman theaters developed specific characteristics. Most of those that have been preserved follow an architectural model proposed by Marco Vitrúvio, consisting of:
Front of the scene (Scenae frons), usually composed of a double row of columns.
Orchestra, semicircle before the proscenium, where the authorities sat.
Aditus, side aisles for entry into the orchestra.
Cavea (cavea), semi-circular structure where, according to the social scale, the spectators sat. It was subdivided into: inferior cavea (ima cavea), middle cavea (media cavea) and upper cavea (summa cavea).
Vomitories (Vomitory): Vaulted entrances through which access to the cavea facilitated the quick exit of the spectators.
Proscenium (proscaenium), space in front of the stage where the dramatic action took place.
Portico behind the scenery (porticus post scaenam), sort of columned patio, behind the scenery or stage.
Some theaters supported the vault over vaulted galleries, while in others the architects took advantage of the slope of some hill to excavate the vault of the theater. The theater could be covered with awnings to protect viewers from rain or sunlight. In addition to these basic facilities, many theaters kept small temples in their structure.
Seating for up to 2,000 people.
The Roman Theater, Volterra, Italy.
The main features of Roman theater derive in principle from those of Greek theater, since Roman architecture itself derives directly from Greek architecture of the Hellenistic period.
The first theaters were built of wood. They were overthrown after the event for which it was raised was completed. A law prevented the construction of permanent theaters. Thus, in 55 BC the Pompey Theater was erected with a temple in order to circumvent the legal fence.
Over time, Roman theaters developed specific characteristics. Most of those that have been preserved follow an architectural model proposed by Marco Vitrúvio, consisting of:
Front of the scene (Scenae frons), usually composed of a double row of columns.
Orchestra, semicircle before the proscenium, where the authorities sat.
Aditus, side aisles for entry into the orchestra.
Cavea (cavea), semi-circular structure where, according to the social scale, the spectators sat. It was subdivided into: inferior cavea (ima cavea), middle cavea (media cavea) and upper cavea (summa cavea).
Vomitories (Vomitory): Vaulted entrances through which access to the cavea facilitated the quick exit of the spectators.
Proscenium (proscaenium), space in front of the stage where the dramatic action took place.
Portico behind the scenery (porticus post scaenam), sort of columned patio, behind the scenery or stage.
Some theaters supported the vault over vaulted galleries, while in others the architects took advantage of the slope of some hill to excavate the vault of the theater. The theater could be covered with awnings to protect viewers from rain or sunlight. In addition to these basic facilities, many theaters kept small temples in their structure.
Seating for up to 2,000 people.