Did you know that the Flavian amphitheater (also known as the Colosseum) is still the largest amphitheater in the world? It has a seating capacity of 87,000 people and covers five full acres! That massive structure has influenced architecture over numerous centuries since its original construction, and amphitheaters today are still based in part on that ancient theater.
While you may not be preparing to challenge that record, chances are your design is based in part on that classic Roman venue. An amphitheater is essentially an outdoor theater, and technically speaking, the name simply refers to two semi-circular theaters facing each other to form a circle or oval.
Many of our modern amphitheaters actually owe much of their existence to ancient Greek architecture as well. The legendary amphitheater at Epidaurus was built into a hillside to take advantage of the stunning natural acoustics. The semi-circular theaters of Greek architecture along with the Roman expansion on the concept are prototypes for our modern amphitheaters.
The term is used rather loosely these days, and generally refers to any outdoor theater. Many modern “amphitheaters” aren’t true amphitheaters in the classical sense, but are simply open air arenas with a central stage. Modern science has allowed us to enhance the ancient concepts for even better acoustics and greater space efficiency. The Hollywood Bowl in California and the Hatch Shell in Boston are good examples of modern amphitheaters.
Of course, one of the biggest differences between ancient and modern amphitheaters is comfort. While the ancient Romans and Greeks had to rough it out on cold stone slabs, we get to enjoy our outdoor events from the comfort of ergonomic stadium seating. As a custom designed amphitheater seating manufacturer, this is one change that we can really get behind!
So whether you’re gearing up to challenge the Collosseum or you’re building a simple school amphitheater, we’re behind you 100%. Call us at 305-932-4626, or toll free at 1-800-706-3598 to find out more about our services as a custom designed amphitheater seating manufacturer. We supply and install seating in all 50 states as well as throughout South America and Australia, so give us a call and let us know how we can help you out.