Urban archaeological excavations in the historic center of Lecce, located in the Apulia region of southern Italy, which began in June 2025, have uncovered significant structures that are reshaping the understanding of the city's early medieval history. These findings indicate a strategic repurposing of the Roman amphitheater into a Byzantine kastron, a fortified complex with administrative functions.
The newly discovered fortifications include substantial walls on the amphitheater's northern side, constructed in two distinct phases. A notable feature is a massive wall, 3.70 meters wide and over 2 meters high, built using the «a sacco» technique. This method involved a rubble core encased by large blocks salvaged from the dismantled Roman amphitheater and other nearby monuments.
These defensive elements are dated to the 5th-6th centuries AD, a period of significant political and military instability across the Roman Empire. During this era, the amphitheater had ceased its original function, a transition hastened by the growing influence of Christianity and Emperor Honorius's 404 AD decree that abolished gladiatorial contests.
The Roman amphitheater, originally constructed between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, was a grand structure capable of seating thousands for gladiatorial games and other public spectacles. It was discovered in the early 20th century and much of it remains buried beneath the modern city, illustrating the coexistence of historical layers in Lecce.
This transformation of the amphitheater from a venue for public entertainment to a fortified center highlights the dynamic nature of urban development and the continuous reinterpretation of historical spaces. The adaptation reflects the resilience and resourcefulness of communities navigating periods of transition.
Research conducted in Lecce also reflects a broader trend during the early medieval period, in which large Roman structures were frequently adapted for defensive purposes. For example, the amphitheater in El Djem was incorporated into the city’s fortifications by the 6th century AD. These discoveries in Lecce not only enrich our understanding of the city’s history but also demonstrate the resilience and adaptability of ancient architectural solutions in the face of changing historical circumstances.