WHO - WHAT - WHERE?

The foundations of modern theatre in Rome

While the notion of theatre and housing originated in ancient Greece, Romans set the foundations of modern theatres and of quality residential constructions. The area with seats would not be only semicircular, but circular, obtaining thus "amphiteatres" like the Colosseum. There was great interest, even emperor Nero was an actor. The quality of the construction was unrivalled and has been a reference ever since.

In Rome also modern apartment buildings were first invented. By the law no more than 6 floors could be built, with top quality fittings, like glass windows. Both in ancient and modern times you could rent Rome apartments of good quality, well prepared and managed.

The theatrical culture also influenced architecture. Rome's baroque fountains are designed after theatrical stages, the most famous are the Trevi and the Paoline fountains. Even the facade of churches are theatrical, for ex. the Oratory of the St. Philip Neri of architect Francesco Borromini. Naturally also palaces and apartments display highly ornamental decorations, and in turn also the interior of Italian theatres is influenced by the layout of apartment buildings. For ex. the higher area of the spectators is called "la loggia", because their sitting layout resembles that of a house, were you can "lodge".