Roman Theatre

Amman, Jordan

Built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (169-177 AD), the large and steeply raked theatre could seat about 6,000 people. It is built into the hillside, and oriented north to keep the sun off the spectators. In this photo, the orchestra and stage are viewed from the first diazoma (horizontal division) of the cavea. For terminology, see: Greek-Roman Theatre Glossary by Thomas G. Hines at Whitman College.