Of the three main entertainment venues in Tarraco, the theatre was the first to be built, during the time of Augustus. Constructed over some old port warehouses, it had a large semi-circular section of stands divided into three cavea (seating areas) facing the stage. This stage was enclosed at the back by a large monumental wall featuring columns and statues, some of which can still be seen today at the National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona. The building was renovated and enhanced with marble statues in the 2nd century AD but was abandoned in the 3rd century. It was used to hold theatrical performances.