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Established in 3rd century, Amphitheater of El Jem is the largest Roman building in Africa. Being the third largest Coliseum in the Rome, this amphitheatre has the seating capacity of 35,000 spectators. Built by the Romans under proconsul Gordian, the site is located in the classic Roman town of Thysdrus.
Nestled beautifully in the small village of El Jem, The Coliseum at El Jem is so huge that it can hold people greater than the population of the town. In the year 1979, the ruins of this historical monument were declared as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
Illustrating the lavishness and extent of imperial Rome, this site is just a stroll away from the railway line. Visitors can enter in the premises from the south side as that area is most intact from other. From the centre ‘stage’, the size of the whole structure can be easily viewed. The sloping passages at the western end in the basement were used for gladiators and animals to enter in the galleries below the arena. Famous for its huge size, this amphitheatre is not as highly decorated as others because it in 1695 it was destructed by the cannon fire and again in 1850 was attacked by the troops.
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