The architects of the gmp workshop, together with the engineers from schlaich bergermann und partner (sbp), have developed a folding roof for the Arena di Verona. The consortium's proposal won an international competition for a retractable protective structure for the famous Verona arena, one of the largest and best-preserved ancient Roman amphitheaters. Built in 30 AD under the Emperor Tiberius, the UNESCO monument is now widely used as a platform for opera performances, concerts, performances.
A sliding roof membrane will be able to completely cover the arena with a surface area of approximately 12,000 m22 and protect the audience from rain and sun, and the building itself - from mechanical damage caused by bad weather. According to the authors of the project, the membrane is well combined with the external appearance of the Roman amphitheater and does not draw attention to itself. The roof is operated by a modern mechanism with a fan-shaped system of movable cables. The cables themselves are hidden under the beams of a compression ring raised above the arena. In addition to the protective function, the roof provides an opportunity to install additional lighting and stage equipment.
