Modern sports arenas impress with their scale and technology: retractable roofs, sophisticated acoustic solutions, digital security and logistics systems. But few people think that many of the ideas originated in antiquity. Ancient stadiums are not only places of competition, but also symbols of power, architectural excellence and social practices. Their designs directly influenced the development of stadium architecture in Europe and the United States in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, and certain principles are still applied today.
In this article we will look at five of the most iconic structures – from the Panathinaikos in Athens to the Colosseum in Rome – and trace how their ideas have been transferred to modern construction.
1. The Amphitheater of Pompeii: a model of mass sport
The amphitheater in Pompeii was built around 80 BC and is considered one of the first stone structures of its kind. Its capacity is approximately 20,000 people, which was a huge number for a small city. This emphasizes the role of sport and spectacle as a social unifier.
Architectural solutions
- Arches and staircases. The system of arched passageways and staircases allowed to quickly seat spectators and regulate the movement of the crowd, reducing the risk of crush. This principle is still used in modern arenas.
- Oval shape. The layout eliminated “dead zones” and provided a good view from any place. That is why the oval or circular shape of bleachers became the standard for most sports facilities.
- Integration into the relief. Part of the stands rested on a natural slope, which saved materials, increased stability and helped to organically integrate the stadium into the landscape. This approach is still used today in the construction of large arenas.
Influence on modern arenas
The Yale Bowl in the USA (1914) was directly inspired by this amphitheater: the arena was also “recessed” into the ground, creating the feeling of a natural amphitheater. Modern stadiums with a similar layout use the same principles of audience distribution and integration with the landscape.
2. The Roman Colosseum: a symbol of engineering excellence
Built in the 1st century AD, the Colosseum became the model for all subsequent arenas. It had a capacity of 50-70 thousand spectators and served as a venue for gladiatorial fights, hunts and theatrical performances.
Architectural solutions
- Vomitoria. The system of entrances and exits allowed thousands of spectators to quickly take their seats and leave the arena.
- Four tiers of tribunes. Distribution by social strata, from the emperor and senators to the common people.
- Concrete and arches. The use of new materials ensured the strength and durability of the structure.
- Hypogeum. Underground corridors were used for animals, gladiators, and decorations, making spectacles more spectacular and large-scale
Influence on modern arenas
Ohio Stadium (1922) can be considered the direct successor to the Coliseum. Its oval shape and arched facade demonstrate the continuation of ancient ideas. The spectator flow system practiced today in major arenas, from Camp Nou to Wembley, owes much to Roman genius.
3. The stadium at Delphi: a synthesis of nature and architecture
Located in the sacred area of Delphi, the stadium was part of the cult complex where the Pythian Games were held. Built in the 2nd century BC, it had a seating capacity of up to 7,000 spectators.
Architectural designs
- Stone seating. Rows were arranged in an amphitheater along the slope, providing good visibility and a sturdy structure.
- VIP areas. The best seats were reserved for nobles and priests, emphasizing the social hierarchy of the society.
- Natural landscape. The grandstands were part of the mountainous terrain, making the stadium harmonious with nature and requiring less construction materials.
Influence on modern arenas
Stanford Stadium (1921) used a similar technique – an oval bowl built into the terrain. Many modern stadiums strive for “ecological integration” with the landscape, which is directly derived from the architecture of Delphi.
4. Circus Maximus: a record for scale
The Circus Maximus in Rome was the largest stadium of antiquity, designed for chariot racing. It was over 600 meters long and about 150 meters wide. Its capacity was estimated at between 150,000 and 250,000 people, making it one of the most massive structures in history.
Architectural solutions
- Spina. The central dividing line set the dynamics of the races and served as a key element of the spectacle.
- Deep grandstands. The seats were arranged in several tiers and went far into the depths, creating scale.
- Tiered seats. This system allowed tens, and possibly hundreds of thousands of spectators to be seated, while maintaining a view for all.
Influence on modern arenas
Harvard’s Concrete Stadium (1903) was designed to embody the spirit of the Circus Maximus – a grandiose space for student competition. The idea of spectacle and scale in mass sports goes back to this Roman giant. In addition, the very concept of building arenas with an emphasis on longitudinal perspective and massive spectator capacity was later adopted in the design of Olympic and World Cup stadiums.
5. The Panathinaikos in Athens: marble and the Olympic ideal
Built in the 4th century BC, the Panathinaikos became the site of the Panathinaic Games, and in 1896 it was here that the first Olympic Games of modern times were held. This makes it a unique example of direct continuity.
Architectural solutions
- White marble. The entire structure was built of Pentelikon marble, which made the stadium not only durable, but also a symbol of the greatness of Athens.
- The length of the track. The running distance was about 180 meters – it was from it that the word “stadium” originated, which became fixed in sports terminology.
- Amphitheatrical form. The design with smooth rows was ideal for running competitions and provided spectators with a comfortable view.
Influence on modern arenas
Harvard Stadium (1903) and many Olympic arenas have borrowed elements of Panathinaik’s layout and proportions. The symbolic significance of this stadium is also enormous: it became a link between the ancient and modern Olympic Games.