The ruins of the Roman amphitheatre in Trier are open to the public and worth seeing. It was constructed in the 1st century AD and saw many of the scenes of gladiatorial combat and animal fights that were so popular with the Romans. Up to 20,000 people could be comfortably accommodated in this arena. It was also used as a last resort place of refuge when the Germanic tribes started their tirade on Trier in the 5th century. Although much is now missing or ruined, the atmospheric remains of the amphitheatre do give a good insight into the history of Trier.
