Imagine the buzz of excitement as thousands of people gather in the ancient city of Carnuntum. This wasn’t just any ordinary gathering; it was a day at the gladiatorial games! Just like today’s sports fans, these Romans craved the thrill of the fight and needed to satisfy their appetites and shopping desires.

Unearthing the Past: A City Beneath the Surface

Hidden beneath the tranquil fields of modern-day Austria lies the sprawling ruins of Carnuntum, a once-thriving Roman city. Though much of its grandeur remains buried, archaeologists are using cutting-edge technology to peek into this forgotten world. Wolfgang Neubauer, director of the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Archaeological Prospection and Virtual Archaeology, leads the exploration, employing techniques like aerial photography, ground-penetrating radar, and magnetometers to unveil the secrets beneath the surface without disturbing the ancient structures.

A City of Entertainment: The Buzz of the Amphitheater

The recent discoveries at Carnuntum have painted a vivid picture of the city’s lively entertainment district. A wide boulevard lined with shops, a tantalizing prospect for souvenir hunters, led to the impressive amphitheater, which could accommodate a staggering 13,000 spectators. The researchers identified various types of businesses along this bustling thoroughfare, comparing them to well-preserved Roman cities like Pompeii.

Food, Games, and More: A Day at the Amphitheater

Imagine the aromas wafting from taverns and thermopolia as eager spectators lined up for a quick bite. These fast-food stands kept cauldrons of hot food ready for hungry crowds, similar to the modern-day snack stands at sporting events. And for those who wanted a heartier meal, a massive granary with a huge oven stood ready to bake fresh bread. The archaeologists were able to identify this oven due to the unique geophysical signature of materials exposed to high temperatures.

Beyond the Gladiatorial Games: A City’s Hidden History

The discoveries extended beyond the amphitheater’s immediate vicinity. The researchers also unearthed evidence of an even older, wooden amphitheater tucked away under the city walls. This fascinating find suggests that the gladiatorial spectacle played a significant role in Carnuntum’s history from its early beginnings.

A Window into the Past: Unveiling the Secrets of Carnuntum

With these remarkable findings, the researchers have provided us with a glimpse into the vibrant life of Carnuntum, a city that once pulsated with the excitement of the gladiatorial games. The unearthed shops, restaurants, and even the older amphitheater reveal a city that thrived on entertainment, showcasing the Romans’ love of spectacle and their ability to create a bustling, thriving center of activity. The upcoming publication of these findings in an academic journal will provide a deeper understanding of this ancient Roman city and its fascinating history.