The Roman Theatre of Verulamium, St Albans : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Explore the fascinating world of the Roman Theatre of Verulamium, St Albans in this travel guide. This is one of the most important surviving Roman theatres in Britannia, and offers a unique glimpse into the past of our ancestors. Here you can find interesting facts about the history of the Roman Theatre of Verulamium, its design, features, and even the plays once put on here. Additionally, you’ll find an overview of the best places to visit in St Albans, including must-see monuments and nearby attractions. So, take a journey to this ancient Roman site and discover some amazing facts and information along the way!

Interesting Facts About The Roman Theatre of Verulamium, St Albans

1. A large mosaic known as the ‘Verulamium Mosaic’ was discovered during archaeological excavations in the site in the late 1950s. It dates to the late 3rd century AD and is the largest and most intricately decorated floor mosaic yet uncovered in Britain.

2. A vast amphitheatre would have been home to a variety of entertainment, including gladiatorial battles, wild animal shows and public executions.

3.Theatre was likely to have also been part of the repertoire, as so called ‘Plays on Wheels’ – wagons that are believed to have been used to stage Roman plays – were discovered in the nearby area.

4. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Verulamium Theatre was converted into a Norman castle. It was abandoned in the 12th century when the Normans built a new castle in nearby St Albans.

5. The remains of the theatre were rediscovered in the 18th century and the first excavation of the site was conducted in 1819 by a local antiquarian, Lewis Stepney.

6. In the 1920s further excavations revealed the full extent of the theatre, including its seating plan and its intricate mosaic flooring.

7. The Amphitheatre was fully excavated between 1951 and 1960, and the site is now an interesting open-air museum open to the public for exploration.

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History & Information About The Roman Theatre of Verulamium, St Albans

The Roman Theatre of Verulamium is located in the city of St Albans in Hertfordshire, England. The theatre was built in the second century AD and is thought to have been the first known theatre to be built in Britain.

The theatre is the only surviving example of a Roman theatre in the United Kingdom. It is thought to have been first constructed in the early part of the 2nd century AD, as part of the Roman settlement of Verulamium (also known as St Albans). It appears to have been used for entertainment and religious ceremonies.

The theatre was excavated in the 1930s as part of the work done by the St Albans Archaeological Society. The site was found to contain many artefacts including pottery, wall paintings, coins and remains of the amphitheatre.

Today, the theatre is an important tourist attraction and is managed by Hertfordshire County Council in association with the Verulamium Museum. The amphitheatre is open to the public, and guided tours are available to students and other visitors.

The Roman Theatre of Verulamium is a unique and fascinating part of Britain’s past and an important reminder of the country’s connection with the ancient Roman world.

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Travel Guide For Visiting The Roman Theatre of Verulamium, St Albans

If you are visiting the Roman Theatre of Verulamium in St Albans, you are in for a treat! This is one of the largest and most impressive Roman ruins in Britain and you will certainly have a fantastic experience visiting this historical site. Here is a travel guide to help you get the most out of your visit.

Getting There: The Roman Theatre of Verulamium is located at St Michael’s Street in St Albans, just a short walk from the train station. There is also a bus station conveniently located within walking distance.

Hours of Operation: The Roman Theatre of Verulamium is open everyday from 10am-6pm.

Entry Fees: Admission to the Roman Theatre of Verulamium is free for all visitors.

Food Options: There are no onsite eateries at the Roman Theatre of Verulamium, so visitors will need to bring their own food and drinks. There are plenty of cafes, pubs, and restaurants located nearby that offer a variety of cuisine.

Museum and Visitor Centre: There is a museum and visitor centre situated at the Roman Theatre of Verulamium which offers an interactive experience that brings the Roman past alive. The visitor centre is open Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm.

Tours: Guided tours of the Roman Theatre of Verulamium are available from the Visitor Centre. Visitors can also arrange a guided tour of the theatre with local historians if desired.

Events: The Roman Theatre of Verulamium hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as live performances, educational lectures, outdoor cinema screenings, and more. Be sure to check the website for details about upcoming events.

Accessibility: The Roman Theatre of Verulamium is mostly wheelchair accessible, except for the upper area of the auditorium. There is an accessible toilet onsite.

Parking: There is limited car parking available at the theatre. Visitors are advised to use public transport if possible.

I hope this travel guide has provided you with all the information you need for a successful visit to the Roman Theatre of Verulamium. Have a great trip!

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Roman Theatre of Verulamium, St Albans

Q: Where is the Roman Theatre of Verulamium?
A: The Roman Theatre of Verulamium is located in St Albans, Hertfordshire, UK.

Q: How old is the Roman Theatre of Verulamium?
A: The Roman Theatre of Verulamium was built in the 2nd century AD.

Q: What does the Roman Theatre of Verulamium look like?
A: The Roman Theatre of Verulamium has a semi-circular shape with tiered seating, a stage area, and an inner courtyard.

Q: What activities can be done at the Roman Theatre of Verulamium?
A: Visitors can explore the ruins, take part in educational activities, or attend special events.

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