The Box Seats Were Found at the Ancient Amphitheater of Pergamon Which Rivaled the Colosseum of Rome
Researchers found two-seat blocks with carved inscriptions during the excavations at the ancient amphitheater of Pergamon. It was a large arena that was built to mirror the Colosseum of Rome. Apparently, the stone seat blocks were found on the arena’s east side.
Scientists know that all sections of society attended the events at the arena, but the inscriptions suggest that these were VIP seats reserved for elite families. They were private seats that were set in special sections and had the names of their owners engraved on them. The amphitheater of Pergamon is widely known for having a unique setup because it was built between a mountain slope and a hill slope. In addition to being built between slopes, the arena was separated by a stream, which was transmitted by a vaulted water channel. It is assumed that this allowed the ancient Romans to set up naval combat or water games in the arena.
The Amphitheater of Pergamon Had a Capacity of 25,000 Spectators
Gladiator fights were also a big event at any arena in ancient Rome, including during the second century. The amphitheater of Pergamon could welcome at least 25,000 spectators and fit as many as 50,000 people. It’s known as one of the best-preserved Asia Minor amphitheaters, but so far, there has not been an accurate study published about it. So, currently, excavations are being carried out by archaeologists with the permission of the Culture and Tourism Ministry of Turkey.
Their hard work has already paid off with the discovery of the ancient box seats. Those hadn’t been documented before, and the discovery indicates that ancient Rome had inscribed seat blocks for privileged individuals. Apparently, those could be found in both the lower seats and on the upper levels. It also seems that people from Rome had a special place reserved for them in the Pergamon amphitheater because there were Latin names written in Greek letters.