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Explore the Colosseum | Largest Amphitheatre in Rome
Explore the Colosseum, Rome's iconic amphitheater that was once a stage for gladiatorial contests, wild animal hunts, and elaborate naval battles. A testament to Roman engineering prowess, this awe-inspiring edifice continues to captivate with its...
Quick Information
RECOMMENDED DURATION
3 hours
Timings
08:30–16:30
VISITORS PER YEAR
6000000
TICKETS
From € 20.89
NUMBER OF ENTRANCES
5
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
1-2 hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
UNESCO YEAR
1980
Did you know?
The Colosseum once had a retractable roof called the ‘velarium’, made of linen and controlled by sailors.
The Colosseum's underground tunnels, known as ‘hypogeum’, contained cages for gladiators and animals.
Emperor Vespasian financed the Colosseum's construction using the spoils from the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem.
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What to see at the Colosseum, Rome?
Outer Wall Facade
Who built the Colosseum?
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was built by the emperors of the Flavian dynasty. Construction began under Emperor Vespasian in around 70-72 AD and was completed in 80 AD by his son, Emperor Titus.
Further modifications were then made under Domitian, Titus's brother and successor. These three emperors, Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian, ruled from 69 AD to 96 AD, and their collective efforts contributed to the creation of the Colosseum, which remains one of the most iconic symbols of Ancient Roman engineering and architectural prowess. The Colosseum was financed through the spoils and wealth acquired from the Roman conquest of Jerusalem during the First Jewish-Roman War (66-73 AD).
Design of the Colosseum
Spanning 189 by 156 meters and at a height of 48 meters, its elliptical shape was designed for optimal crowd management and visibility for 50,000 to 70,000 spectators across four levels, mirroring Rome's social hierarchy.
Beneath its wooden arena floor lies the hypogeum, a complex network of tunnels for gladiators and animals, enabling dramatic entrances. This innovation, coupled with the use of travertine, tufa, and concrete, and adorned with Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian columns, showcases Roman engineering prowess.
The Colosseum's design, including freight elevators and a retractable awning (velarium) for shade, epitomizes ancient Rome's architectural innovation, enduring through centuries via ongoing restoration.
Architecture of the ColosseumWhat was the purpose of the Colosseum In Rome?
The Colosseum in Rome has served multiple purposes throughout its extensive history, reflecting the changing times and needs of society.
Ancient times
Originally, the Colosseum was a grand arena for public spectacles. It was the epicenter for gladiatorial contests, where gladiators faced off against each other or wild beasts. Beyond these bloody engagements, it hosted mock naval battles (naumachiae), re-enactments of famous victories, performances based on mythology, and public executions. These events were integral to Roman culture, providing entertainment, showcasing imperial power, and reinforcing social hierarchies.
Medieval times
In the Middle Ages, the Colosseum underwent significant transformations. It served religious purposes, including use as a church, and became a stronghold for powerful Roman families like the Frangipane and the Annibaldi. The period was marked by neglect, compounded by natural disasters and looting, leading to its gradual deterioration.
Modern times
The 19th century marked the beginning of efforts to preserve the Colosseum, initiated under Pope Pius VIII. However, it wasn't until 1990 that comprehensive restoration projects were launched to repair and conserve this iconic monument. Today, the Colosseum stands as a testament to Roman engineering and a symbol of Italy's rich historical heritage, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe.
Colosseum in popular culture
The towering ruins have become a popular subject in literature and art, as well as in film and television, often depicted as a symbol of power and glory.
- The Colosseum has been immortalized in works of literature, from the thrilling lines of Lord Byron's poetry to the dramatic Quo Vadis by Henryk Sienkiewicz, where it's practically a character in its own right.
- The Colosseum has found its way to the big screen as well. Who doesn't remember watching Russel Crowe duking it out on the arena in the Gladiator (2000)?
- If you are an avid gamer, you would have probably spotted the amphitheater in Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood. that allows players to scamper around a Colosseum so well-crafted, it feels as if you have been given a front-row seat to the glory days of Rome, all without leaving your living room.
Flora of Colosseum
The Colosseum once teemed with a diverse array of plant species, many of which were not native to Rome. Nineteenth-century botanist Richard Deakin, fascinated by the Colosseum's flora, observed that these plants acted as “a link in the memory,” triumphantly flourishing amidst the ruins. The Colosseum's green inhabitants ranged from species well-known in Italy, such as hollies, capers, knapweed, and thistle, to those unique to its ancient stones and found nowhere else in Europe. This botanical diversity has been celebrated in literature, with Charles Dickens vividly describing the plant life at the Colosseum in his book, “Pictures from Italy.”
Today, the Colosseum is home to 243 distinct plant species, continuing to be a living testament to the intersection of natural beauty and historical decay.
Frequently asked questions about the Roman Colosseum
Why was the Colosseum built?
Emperor Vespasian originally constructed the Colosseum to serve as a grand amphitheater for public spectacles, including gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and mock naval battles. It was a gift to the Roman citizens from the Flavian emperors, symbolizing the empire's wealth, power, and engineering prowess, while also serving as a tool for political propaganda.
What makes the Colosseum's architecture unique?
The Colosseum was a marvel of ancient engineering, featuring a complex system of vaults and arches that allowed it to support the weight of the massive structure. Its elliptical design, and sophisticated system of entrances and exits (vomitoria) that enabled large crowds to enter and exit efficiently was revolutionary for its time. The use of concrete and stone allowed for the Colosseum's iconic durability and scale.
How many people died in the Colosseum?
Estimates show that about 400,000 people died in the Colosseum throughout its history. In its first 100 days alone, 2000 gladiators are said to have lost their lives here.
What happened to the Colosseum after the fall of the Roman Empire?
In the years following the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE, the Colosseum fell into disuse and began to deteriorate. Over the years, it evolved to serve various purposes, including as a fortress, quarry, and Christian shrine. Significant restoration efforts didn't begin until the 19th century.
How did the Colosseum influence modern stadiums?
The Colosseum's design principles, such as maximizing visibility for spectators, efficient crowd management, and the use of retractable coverings, have influenced the design of modern sports stadiums around the world.
What’s inside the Colosseum?
In the center of the Colosseum is the arena- a wooden floor on which the battles and shows were performed. Below the wooden floor is the Hypogea- a place where the beasts and machines were housed. You can also view the various floors of the Colosseum from where you can view the arena, including the Belvedere on the top floor.
Can you still see gladiatorial equipment in the Colosseum?
While the original gladiatorial weapons and armor have long since disappeared, head to the Colosseum Museum on the second tier to view displays replicas and findings from the site and other Roman locations, offering insights into the lives of gladiators and the equipment they used.
