Things to Do at Roman Stadium

The Roman Stadium in Plovdiv is one of those archaeological discoveries that genuinely makes you stop and think about the layers of history beneath your feet. Built in the 2nd century AD during Emperor Hadrian's reign, this massive stadium could hold around 30,000 spectators who came to watch athletic competitions and gladiatorial games. What's particularly fascinating is that most of it remains buried under modern Plovdiv - you're actually seeing just the northern curved end, which was uncovered somewhat by accident during construction work in the 1960s. Walking through the exposed section, you get a real sense of the stadium's original scale and engineering prowess. The Romans knew how to build things that lasted, and even after nearly 2,000 years, the stone seating and structural elements are remarkably well-preserved. It's worth noting that this stadium was likely the largest in the Roman province of Thrace, which gives you an indication of just how important Plovdiv (then called Philippopolis) was in the ancient world.

The Roman Stadium sits directly under Plovdiv's main shopping street. You literally can't miss it-the ancient ruins sprawl beneath Knyaz Alexander I Street in the city center. Walk ten minutes downhill from Old Town. Take any bus from the train or bus station to the center. Get off at the pedestrian zone. The entrance has clear signs, and tourists always gather at street level to peer down at the ruins below.