Theatres, Hippodromes, Amphitheatres, and Performances

This article discusses the various buildings of public spectacles and competitions in Roman Palestine, including theatres and amphitheatres. It first considers the current state of research and the possible objectives for future study. It then shows how these structures were distributed and financed and where they were most likely located. It examines architecture and performances in theatres, which were first built by Herod in Jericho, Jerusalem, and Caesarea. The discussion then shifts to the hippodromes and stadiums, which served as multipurpose structures for athletic contests and chariot races, and the amphitheatres and its gladiatorial combats. Finally, the article studies the attitudes of Jewish society towards these Roman public spectacles in ancient Palestine.