During the 1st and 2nd centuries the city of Trieste developed immensely, and as such received its ampitheatre around that time. Inscriptions on the structure implicate Q. Petronius Modestus as instrumental in its construction, which at the time exploited the gentle slopes overlooking the sea, however, progressive silting has meant the shore is now somewhat further out. Originally built of both stone and wood structure (the stands having been made of the former, the top steps and stage the latter), the quintessential Roman edifice continues to impress, its statues (previously decorating the theatre) now on exhibition at the town museum.