Welcome

This unique conference will range across all aspects of study of Roman Amphitheatres and the spectacula that took place in them. The event offers specialists and non-specialists alike an unrivalled opportunity to access the very latest research and thinking from many different perspectives.

The conference will discuss the discovery of new amphitheatre sites, and recent excavation and survey work, aspects of the architecture and planning of the buildings, amphitheatres both at the frontier periphery and at the centre of the Empire; from Northern Europe through Spain, the east, and North Africa. It will examine functional, religious and social aspects of the buildings and the spectacles, aspects of the organization of the spectacles, and gladiatorial death and burial. The problems encountered in the preservation and display of amphitheatres as monuments in the modern urban environment will be touched upon. The Conference will feature speakers from the USA, Canada, Brazil, Austria, Germany, Spain and the UK, and will start with a keynote public lecture given by Professor Kathleen Coleman of Harvard University – ‘The Arena of conflict: facts, myths and speculation about gladiatorial combat in ancient Rome.’

In addition to the stimulating and diverse programme of speakers, there will be an opportunity to visit the amphitheatre and other remains of Roman Chester, and a Conference Dinner featuring gladiatorial entertainment.

It is hoped that through formal and informal discussions new perspectives on the amphitheatre will indeed emerge to inform debate, research and perhaps similar gatherings in the future.

Roman Amphitheatres and Spectacula – A 21st Century Perspective

will take place in Chester, England on 16 - 18 February 2007.

We would be delighted to see you there, so don’t miss out! Please complete and return the attached booking form – the Early Bird discount is available until Friday 5th January – and return it to the Conference office address.

The Roman Amphitheatres & Spectacula Conference is being organised in conjunction with the Chester Amphitheatre Project.

The largest uncovered amphitheatre in the UK is the subject of a major archaeological project. In a partnership between English Heritage and Chester City Council a top team of experts are uncovering new results which are adding to the story of Chester and the world-wide knowledge of Roman history.

How much does it cost?

Flexibility is our maxim regarding registration and all elements of the conference have been priced individually so you can build the package which best suits you. An early booking discount is available to delegates booking prior to Friday 5th January 2007. Book online here.
(Please note the 2.75% handling charge applies only to Credit Card payments not Debit Cards).

Delegate bookings must be accompanied by a fully authorised Purchase Order or by full payment to guarantee their place. Bookings will be taken on a strictly first come-first-served basis, as places at the conference are limited. Accommodation can be booked separately through the Chester Tourist Information Centre accommodation booking service on 01244 402506 or www.visitchester.com

Where is it being held?

Where else but in the UK’s most exciting amphitheatre destination – Chester – host to 8.5 million visitors per year. The ancient city is one of Britain’s finest Heritage cities. It offers a wealth of history and unique treasures alongside a cosmopolitan and modern centre with street cafes, designer boutiques and richly stocked antique stores and is set amid a county of contrasts with silk museums to salt mines, tranquil waterways to vibrant street theatre, timeless towns to delightful villages.

The Conference will be held in the Grosvenor Museum, which is sited close to Chester city centre. The museum, which has steps free access to the ground floor, houses an exceptional array of Roman artifacts and exhibits, illustrating Chester’s story since Roman times. Lunch on both days will be an informal buffet served at Pastarazzi, one of Chester’s best-loved Italian restaurants.

How to get there?

By Plane

Chester & Cheshire is served by two International Airports. Coach, rail and car/taxi transfers are available. Manchester International Airport is approximately a 40 minute drive from Chester and has a range of domestic, European and International services to over 200 destinations. www.manchesterairport.com

Liverpool John Lennon Airport is around 30 minutes drive from Chester and also has a range of domestic and European services with a variety of low-cost and scheduled airlines. www.liverpooljohnlennonairport.com

By Rail

The National Rail Enquiry Helpline is open for up-to-date rail advice 08457 48 49 50

By Road

Chester is connected by the M6 traveling north/south, and the M56/M53 traveling east/west.

Directions to the Grosvenor Museum, Chester, CH1 2DD can be found here. If you require further information please call 01244 402506.

For all enquiries please contact Eleanor or Lisa at
Event Management & Marketing Matters
Southdene House 16 Booths Hill Road, Lymm, Cheshire WA13 0DL
Email lisa@emmm.co.uk or amphitheatre@emmm.co.uk
Tel: 01925 752078 Fax: 01925 758255

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