Maenianum

A structure supported on corbels; a balcony projecting from the wall of a house; in a theatre or amphitheatre, one range of seats comprised between two landingplaces (praecinctiones). Originally a balcony erected round the Roman forum, B.C. 318, to give accommodation to the spectators of gladiatorial contests. Afterwards balconies in general were so called.

A Maenianum was a balcony or gallery for spectators at a public show in ancient Rome. The name was originally given by censor Gaius Maenius in 318 BC to the decorated gallery in the Colosseum, where spectators watched gladiatorial combats.

The Maenianum was divided into several levels: Maenianum Primum, which was reserved for the non-senatorial noble class called the Equites. The Maenianum Secundum, which featured the better, lower seats for the wealthy plebeians; and Maenianum Summum with the upper seats for the poor plebeians.