Amman Roman Theatre

The 6,000-seat Roman theatre in Philadelphia – now Amman – was built during the reign of Antonius Pius around 140 AD (though some sources claim it was during the reign of Marcus Aurelius). It is one of the world's best surviving examples of classic Roman amphitheatre architecture. The south-facing stage receives most of the day's sunshine, while the audience seating is shaded, and the acoustics are outstanding, and they are in practically all existing Roman theatre complexes.

The standard three tier layout meant the rulers sat on the bottom, closest to the action, the military and assorted dignitaries took the middle tier and the general public had to squint from the top. The theatre is still used for theatrical and musical performances, as well as other cultural activities. Commodus built the forum in front of the theatre, but all that remains are a lengthy Corinthian colonnade and some Roman paving stones. Visitors can also visit the rebuilt Odeon on the east side of the forum, which can hold 500 spectators, and the Nymphaeum, a 191 AD beautiful fountain devoted to the water nymphs.