BONUS EPISODE – Pack your bags for Italy and dust off some clues with us as we dig into our first episode of a new ongoing bonus series – Ancient Venues. For this first episode we take a look at the Amphitheatre of Capua (Anfiteatro Campano), located in modern day Santa Maria Capua Vetere, Italy. We are joined by Valerie Higgins, Associate Professor of Archaeology at The American University of Rome, who guides us through the history of this legendary venue from the Roman Empire. The current amphitheatre sits on the site of two former, smaller amphitheatres, the first of which is presumed to have been built close to 100 B.C. It is second in size only to the Roman Coliseum and is located next to what was the most notable school for gladiators, where Spartacus was from and began his rebellion. We learn all about this incredible venue, historic venue terminology, seating and ticketing, events that were hosted, why large scale events like this took place, concessions and design, and its fascinating hypogeum – located under the arena floor where they staged scenery and warriors for the events. Whether you’re a venue nerd or a history buff, or a little of both, you’ll love hearing all about this ancient wonder that helped shape the venues we all know and love today.