Basilica

The Basilica was a place for business transactions (similar to a stock market) and for justice to be administered, according to Pompeii, a Guide to the Excavations.  Presiding judges would dole out punishments to defendants. Map #2

Large Theater

The Large or Grand Theater was built along a hillside.  The theater could hold up to 5,000 spectators.  It had a canopy that could be stretched across the top of the theater to provide shade for spectators during the summer heat.  Both comedies and tragedies were performed at this theater and was a great source of public entertainment for the Romans. Map #10 

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Video of Large and Small Theater and Quadriporticus

Small Theater

The small theater, know as the Odeion held about 1,500 spectators.  Performances of miming, musicals and song occurred in this theater.  You can still see the poles on top of the theater that supported the roof, which improved acoustics within the theater.  There are beautiful, decorative stones within the theater.  Telamones, or statues of men, supported the steps.  Map #12

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Quadriporticus of the theaters or Gladiator Barracks

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The Quadriporticus has 74 Doric columns and was used for different purposes.  Originally it was used as an open space for spectators to relax and mingle during intermissions of the shows.  They could buy fast food, stretch their legs, or converse with friends.  During the excavation of Pompeii, numerous gladiatorial items were found including helmets and weapons.  There were second story apartments in the Quadriporticus that could have belonged to the overseer of the gladiators.
A Guide to the Pompeii Excavations states that "Many victims were found here, such as four skeletons of slaves...including a woman with a very rich collection of jewels".  Map #11

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