A Roman amphitheater is a large, circular or oval structure built by the ancient Romans for public spectacles, such as gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and theatrical performances. These impressive buildings featured tiered seating to accommodate thousands of spectators and were often constructed from stone and concrete. The most famous example is the Colosseum in Rome, which could hold around 50,000 spectators. Amphitheaters were strategically located in cities across the Roman Empire, serving as centers of entertainment and social gathering. They typically included features like an arena, where events took place, and a complex system of entrances and exits to manage crowds. The design of these structures influenced modern stadiums and theaters.