Yesterday we visited the ruins of the Roman theatre in Catania, but I knew there was another Roman ruin nearby – a Roman amphitheater with seating for 15,000.

When we found the amphitheatre, we realized that we had walked right past it yesterday when we were looking for a place to eat lunch. If you are on the wrong side of the street, you can easily miss it.

It has an interesting history. After the fall of the Roman Empire, it fell into disuse. Later, most of the tunnels were walled off because they provided a hidden entrance into the city – not a great idea when you have city walls for protection. Then, after the 1693 earthquake, the city rebuilt on top of the site. Locals still believed there had been a huge amphitheatre in the area, but scholars doubted its existence. And then, it was rediscovered during early excavations and over time more has been found, in spite of the fact that most of it lies under the modern city of Catania. Some of the sections are remarkably well preserved.

Bits of the site offer hints of the former glory. This picture shows one of the entrances to the arena, with the original stone lintel over the door. You can also see some of the marble slabs that lined the walls, along with portions of columns.

It was rather hot today (27 Celsius) so it was quite pleasant exploring underground.

When we finished, it was time to visit the botanical garden, one of our favourite travel pastimes. Also, another cool spot with lots of shade.

There was a large section of succulents, another favourite. I like this one with the plant in shade, but the sun highlighting the spines.

There were also lots of flowers, some old favourites, and some new ones

Here is one that I’ve never seen before.

And here are some more new one.

There were a variety of cactus fruits as well.

I’ll close with an old favourite.

Tomorrow we’re having a closer look at Etna.