The Colosseum of Rome or Flavian Amphitheater is a grandiose historical and architectural monument cylindrical shape that is located in the capital of Italy:Rome.
Built in antiquity, the Colosseum in Rome is currently one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city.
This world heritage site reveals the skill and diverse techniques used by the architects, engineers and builders of Ancient Rome. It is therefore one of the greatest examples of Roman architecture.
The Coliseum was included by UNESCO in the list of World Heritage Sites. In addition, in 2007 it was elected one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Did you know?
The Colosseum is also called the “Flavian Amphitheater” since the Flavian Dynasty was in power when it was built.
It is believed that the name "Colosseum" came about because it was built over the lake of Nero's house, which featured a large statue of the emperor called the "Colossus".
History of the Colosseum
The Colosseum in Rome was built in the 1st century (about 70 AD). Its construction began in the government of Emperor Vespasian and was completed when Titus, his son, was in power.
In total, it took six years to build one of the most emblematic symbols of the Roman Empire.
The main intention was the entertainment of the people. In other words, a place for public spectacles and the fight of Roman gladiators.
When it was inaugurated by Emperor Titus, 100 days of games were held in the arenas. Attractions included executions, naval battles, gladiatorial combats, animal fights and hunting, among others.
Some events held at the Coliseum had produced scenarios and many were based on Roman mythology.
The Colosseum in Rome was used for entertainment for 5 centuries. In the 5th century, Rome was hit by an earthquake that affected the structure of the place. However, it was later restored.
Centuries later, it was used as a military base. During the Renaissance (from the 15th century) the site was looted several times. As a result, it lost most of its valuable materials.
Fun facts about the Colosseum
- The Colosseum in Rome is the largest amphitheater in the world and one of the greatest symbols of the Italian city.
- Initially it had three floors and then another one was added.
- The Coliseum is 45 meters high, which corresponds to a two-story building.
- The Colosseum was built with concrete and sand. Also used were:stone, marble and tile.
- In Ancient Rome, it housed between 50 and 80 thousand people. It had about 80 stairs, which made it easy for so many people to get out.
- During the Inaugural Games it is estimated that around 9,000 animals and 2,000 gladiators died.
- The Colosseum arena was built in wood. However, it gets its name because the structure was covered in sand.
- The arena measured 87.5 meters by 55 meters.
- Some shows included exotic animals, which were imported from Africa such as lions, panthers, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, etc.
- The stands were divided according to social classes:the podium, for the upper classes; the maeniana, for the middle class; and the porticos, for the lower class.
- It was built on the site that suffered from a great fire during Emperor Nero's rule.