Only the great Colosseum in Rome and the ruined theatre of Capua are larger.
In those times, Thysdrus was an important center of olive oil manufacturing which was exported in huge quantities.
Its facade comprises three levels of arcades of Corinthian or composite style.
Inside, the monument has conserved most of the supporting infrastructure for the tiered seating.
The wall of the podium, the arena and the underground passages are practically intact.
Until the 17th century, the amphitheatre remained more or less whole.
The ruins of the amphitheatre were declared a World Heritage Site in 1979.
Because of its good acoustics, it hosts the annual Festival international demusique symphonique d’El Jem.