The Theater Of Marcellus

Along with the Circus Maximus, the Theater of Marcellus is mentioned in “The Bodyguard,” one of the three stories in The Deadliest Returns. It was an ancient open-air theater where Miriam’s friend Professor Jason would go with his childhood buddy when the old soldier was on furlough. Built in the closing years of the Roman Republic, it was more than 100 meters in diameter, the largest and most important theatre in Rome. Originally, it could hold almost 20,000 spectators. At the theater, locals and visitors alike were able to watch performances of drama and song.

Space for the theater was cleared by Julius Caesar, who was murdered before its construction could begin. The building was completed in 13 BC. A year later, Augustus named it after his nephew Marcus Claudius Marcellus, who had died in 23 BC.

Look closely at the image, and you’ll find eight yellow markers. These markers indicate the Aemilian Bridge, Circus Flaminius, Theater of Marcellus, Fabrican Bridge, Tiber Island, Temple of Hercules Victor, Tiber River, and Portico of Pompey. If you can identify four of the markers, email me at JuneTrop@live.com. I will send you the ebook of your choice, either The Deadliest Deceptions or The Deadliest Returns, my two most recent books. That’s almost as good as a time machine visit to Ancient Rome. Click here to make your choice.