Velarium

The velarium was a type of awning used in Roman amphitheaters, most notably the Colosseum, to provide shade for spectators from the sun. It consisted of a complex system of fabric panels stretched over a framework of ropes and spars.

The velarium was operated by specialized sailors, known as velarii, who were stationed at the top of the amphitheater's outer wall. These sailors used a system of winches and pulleys to raise, lower, and adjust the awning panels as needed to track the sun's movement throughout the day. The size and weight of the velarium required a significant workforce and considerable skill to manage effectively.

Evidence suggests the velarium was not a permanent fixture of all amphitheaters, and its presence and usage could vary. The expense and complexity of its construction and operation likely limited its widespread adoption. The presence of the velarium in the Colosseum is well-documented, however, and its remnants, such as the corbels which supported the masts, are still visible today. The primary function of the velarium was to increase the comfort of the audience, thereby contributing to the overall experience of attending gladiatorial combats and other spectacles.