The Roman amphitheater at Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa was officially reopened to the public on Friday, August 8, following a major conservation and restoration project funded by the European Union. The event, organized by the Hunedoara County Council under the name \u201cOpen Doors Day,\u201d celebrated the completion of work aimed at preserving and enhancing one of Romania\u2019s most important national heritage monuments.<\/p>\n
The project, supported through the Regional Operational Programme 2014\u20132020 and the West Regional Program 2021\u20132027, involved extensive conservation, restoration, and interpretative efforts to allow visitors to experience the site much as it was over a century ago.<\/p>\n
Project coordinator \u0218tefan B\u00e2lici explained the dual purpose of the intervention: \u201cOur intention was not only to conserve the ruins but also to add a layer of interpretation. Ruins rarely tell their full story without guidance. That is why we installed the metal structure above the ruins – to restore the monument\u2019s original character as an inward-facing space centered on the arena. This structure allows the public to attend performances, thus reviving the amphitheater\u2019s original function. [\u2026] This is the only archaeological monument in Romania where the original function has been recovered while preserving the ruins\u2019 unaltered character.\u201d<\/p>\n
The restoration works included securing the structure, conserving and restoring archaeological remains, reconstructing essential architectural elements, refurbishing the seating tiers and stage, installing architectural lighting, adding modern signage, and improving the surrounding area to facilitate access and visitation.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe secured funding worth RON 22 million, and the specialists delivered! This work proves that when science, experience, and respect for history come together, the result is a landmark intervention for cultural heritage. I thank the National Heritage Institute, ADR Vest, the design team, museologists, and all involved. Today, the Amphitheater at Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa is reborn, to the joy of all who cherish history,\u201d said Lauren\u021biu Nistor, president of the Hunedoara County Council.<\/p>\n\n
irina.marica@romania-insider.com<\/p>\n