- The city is home to the first gladiatorial school in the Roman Empire, where the famous revolt led by Spartacus began in 73 BC.
- The Anfiteatro campano was the second largest amphitheater in the Roman world, trailing only the Colosseum in Rome for total capacity.
- During the Roman era, Capua was considered the second most important city in Italy after Rome due to its extreme wealth and strategic location on the Via Appia.
- The modern city was renamed Santa Maria Capua Vetere in 1861 to distinguish it from the newer, separate municipality of Capua, which was built on a different site.
- The local 'Capua' dialect retains specific linguistic traits linked to its Oscan and Roman historical origins, distinct from the broader Neapolitan dialect.
About Santa Maria Capua Vetere
Santa Maria Capua Vetere, located in the province of Caserta, sits directly atop the ruins of ancient Capua, once one of the most prosperous cities in the Roman Empire. Its historical importance is anchored by the massive Anfiteatro campano, which served as the model for the Colosseum in Rome. Visitors can explore the deep layers of Roman and medieval history at the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Capua or visit the nearby Basilica Benedettina Sant'Angelo in Formis to view its famous 11th-century frescoes. The city serves as a key gateway to the Campania region's heritage, blending its monumental Roman legacy with traditional southern Italian civic life.
Highlights of Santa Maria Capua Vetere
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Museums
View the remarkably preserved underground corridors of this massive Roman amphitheater.
Museums
Examine artifacts recovered from the ancient Capuan necropolis and gladiator school.
Temples
Admire the well-preserved Byzantine-style frescoes inside this historic Benedictine church.
Museums
Tour this 18th-century Bourbon royal estate featuring a unique elliptical hippodrome.
Venues
Experience a performance in this neoclassical theater inaugurated in the late 19th century.
Places of interest
Walk through this historical gate that marks the architectural transition into the city's older quarters.
Temples
Visit this cathedral to witness its long-standing role as the religious center of the community.
Top things to do in Santa Maria Capua Vetere
The 90 highest-rated places in Santa Maria Capua Vetere, ranked by travellers.
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Santa Maria Capua Vetere on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Santa Maria Capua Vetere
Spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October), as the Mediterranean climate is most comfortable for exploring outdoor archaeological sites.
2 days, which provides sufficient time to explore the archaeological ruins, the museum, and the nearby religious landmarks.
The city center is compact and largely walkable, though regional trains and buses are required to reach outlying sites like the Royal Palace of Carditello.
Stay in the historic center near Piazza Matteotti for easy access to the main attractions and local dining options.
Mid-range; the city offers affordable local dining and accommodation options compared to larger Italian tourist hubs.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 90 curated attractions in and around Santa Maria Capua Vetere, ranked by traveller ratings.
Anfiteatro campano is the highest-rated place to visit in Santa Maria Capua Vetere right now.
The largest category is temples, with 40 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Rome, Milan, Galatina.
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