Pompeii Walking Tour (Part 1) | Gladiator Barracks | Theatre District | Fast Food Shops & Bakery

A Shifting Stage: Pompeii's Gladiatorial Barracks
Behind Pompeii's grand theatre lies a structure with a surprising past. Originally, this colonnaded space, known as a "quadriporticus," served a leisurely purpose. Imagine theatregoers strolling through its 74 Doric columns during intermissions, seeking refreshments or shade from the sun. It was a place for social gatherings between acts.
Fate, however, intervened. A devastating earthquake in 62 AD forced a dramatic change. The quadriporticus transitioned from a space for audience leisure to a place of gladiatorial training. Rooms along the sides were converted into living quarters for these skilled fighters, likely brought in from other towns.
Archaeological evidence supports this transformation. Discoveries of gladiator armor and weaponry paint a vivid picture of this repurposed space. Interestingly, the upper floor may have housed the undertaker responsible for those who fell in the arena, hinting at the gladiatorial presence.
The Odeon: Intimate Performances on a Covered Stage
Nestled within Pompeii is a smaller theatre known as the Odeon, or "theatrum tectum" in Roman terms. Built around 79 BC, an inscription credits two local magistrates, Marcus Porcius and Caius Quinctius Valgus, for its construction - the same duo behind Pompeii's amphitheatre.
Unlike the larger theatre, the Odeon wasn't designed for grand spectacles. Instead, it offered a more intimate setting for performances that thrived on good acoustics. With a roof overhead, it provided the perfect environment for mime shows, a popular genre at the time, along with musical and singing acts.
The Romans spared no expense in creating a visually stunning venue. The Odeon was adorned with vibrant, multicolored marbles. Imposing male figures carved from volcanic rock (tuff), known as "telamones," supported the steps leading to the seating area.
The well-preserved plaster on the Odeon's exterior walls holds a hidden treasure trove - graffiti left behind by spectators. These markings, some from faraway lands, offer a fascinating glimpse into the diverse audience the Odeon attracted.
A Peek into Pompeii's Eateries: The Termopolium
Imagine Pompeii in its prime, bustling with activity. Tucked along a vibrant street corner sits a brightly painted counter adorned with intricate frescoes. This wasn't just any shop; it was a termopolium, the ancient Roman equivalent of a fast-food stall.
Here, residents could grab a hot, ready-made meal on the move. Unlike modern restaurants, the termopolium offered pre-cooked food kept warm in large terracotta containers embedded in the counter itself. Think savory stews, hearty soups, and perhaps even legumes or small cuts of meat. Wine, a staple beverage in Roman society, likely flowed freely as well.
These thermopolia were a social hub for Pompeiians, offering a quick and affordable bite in a casual setting. The well-preserved remains of one such establishment in Pompeii's northeast district provide a fascinating glimpse into this bygone era. The counter itself seems frozen in time, with remnants of food containers hinting at the meals once served. Adding an eerie touch are the petrified remains of two individuals - possibly the owner and a customer - forever preserved in a moment of daily life.
The termopolium serves as a poignant reminder of Pompeii's vibrant past. It's a silent snapshot of a time when Romans enjoyed a convenient and social way to grab a bite on the go..
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