The History of a Discovery

From the beginning, the discovery and excavation of the Roman Theatre of Cartagena has become in one of the most amazing finds the town's archaeology, demonstrating the important role that the town of Cartagena played in the history of Old Spain (Hispania Antigua).

The reason why a monument of this category and dimension might have remained hidden for centuries is that it is one of the few areas of the city that has remained continuously occupied until now, with the result that its appearance was hidden with the passing of time. An example of this occupation is the partial superimposing of the Old Cathedral over the upper part of the Roman Theatre, one of the single greatest examples of the town's archaeological remains.

Despite starting off as being a simple archaeological project, the complete restoration of the roman ruins has become the driving force behind the regeneration of one of the most depressed areas of the city. Furthermore, its location alongside some of the town's most significant buildings, such as the Cathedral, Town Hall, the Mediaeval Castle and port facilities, makes it one of the most attractive and monumental places in Cartagena.