Apparently, the Spanish weren’t into preservation of ruins. They did, however, recycle and reclaim, which is why not much is left of Siracusa’s ancient Roman Amphitheater (The Spanish took the stone to create buildings and walls elsewhere.). Just like in the world-famous Coliseum in Rome, this first-century BC arena hosted circuses, horse races, gladiator battles, and naval re-enactments (Yes, there is evidence that the Romans filled this structure with water!). So, don’t think that what we do with ice-hockey (in Tampa, Florida in June!) is all that innovative. Entertainment has been big business for over two millennia.
