Roman Theater

built by AV Karel Schonbaum (Utrecht, NL)

AV Schonbaum had visited several amphitheaters (Nimes, Arles, Colosseum) and one theater (Orange).  But, to build an amphitheater (an amphitheater is essentially two theaters arranged so that the stage areas form an arena in the center), one needs a very large number of arch stones.  He built two sections of the Colosseum and a corner of a theater.  These projects allowed him to refine his techniques for creating a circular structure with rectangular stones.

Thanks in large measure to the new factory, AV Schonbaum was able to acquire enough # 98 stones to build a complete theater.  This theater required about 8,000 of his 14,000 stone collection.  His reproduction follows quite closely a real Roman theater, with the correct system of entrances, steps and vomitoria (exits to the seats).  You will observe that the basic design of stadiums has not changed much since the Romans worked it out.
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A good look at the stage and the seats.
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An overhead view.  The vomitoria are particularly clear in this picture. 
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The outer ring is interesting.  Columns are used to fill the angled connections of the arches. 
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The rear of the stage area.
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This view is far more interesting than any "ground plan".  There are 19 radial lines, resulting in 18 segments.
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This view of the partially disassembled building shows the internal construction.  I think we can all agree that this Roman theater is a wonderful and most unusual Anchor building.
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