The architectural typology of the modern stadium derives from the classical prototype of the Greek stadium, even if the link between ancient and modern stadiums is not always clearly visible. Today's stadiums mostly resemble the Greek theatres, and the Roman circuses and Amphitheatres.

The word 'stadium' is the Latin form of the Greek word that describes a standard of length (1 stadium = 600 Greek feet; or 606 feet and 9 inches; or 185 meters). Originally it refers to the measured length of the course in the ancient Greek stadiums.

The Greek Stadium was the open space where footraces and other athletic contests took place in ancient Greece. The stadiums were usually U-shaped, the curve being opposite to the starting point. The courses were generally 600 Greek feet long (1 stadium), although the length varied according to local variations of the measuring unit. Natural slopes where used where possible to support the seats.

The Greek Theatres were the first constructions in open air where dances and ritual choirs of the Dyonysian cults were held. The first theatres were built in the fourth century B.C. They were characterized by a carefully laid down cavea in a natural declivity. The stands consisted of stones placed in a semicircular way. The lowest part of the theatre hosted the orchestra that had a circular form and that was enclosed with stands. At the opposite side of the cavea, one could see the scene that had a higher position in respect of the orchestra and that was open towards the environment.

The Equestrian Circus developed during the Roman Empire was a big structure with an elliptical and elongated form. It was used for two-wheeled chariots races, gladiator fights, and other shows. Its basin was almost completely interred: it could arrive at a length of 600 meters and a capacity of 250 000 spectators. Three sides of this structure had tiers, whereas the fourth one served for the depot of the chariots. The main entrance was at the centre of the fourth side.

The Roman Amphitheatre was constructed in elevation (as opposed to the Greek theatre) and contained an elliptical cavea. It had continuous tiers and arches that represent the typical architectural composition of overlying orders. The orchestra didn't exist anymore (the Roman theatre did not have choirs) and the central space of the construction was called the arena. The shows where held in the arena and were very close to the tiers. The first amphitheatres resembled much the Greek ones and many times they were completely interred.