The Coliseum of Rome or Flavian Amphitheater is a grand historic and architectural monument of cylindrical shape that is located in the capital of Italy: Rome.
It was built in antiquity and is currently one of the most visited tourist spots in the city.
This world heritage site reveals the skill and diverse techniques used by ancient Roman architects, engineers and builders. 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 he was elected one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Did you know?
The Coliseum is also called the “Flavian Amphitheater” since the Flavian Dynasty was in power when it was erected.
It is believed that the name “Coliseum” came about because it was built over the lake of Nero's house which had a large statue of the emperor called “Colossus”.
Coliseum History
Original facade of the Coliseum in Rome
The Coliseum in Rome was built in the 1st century (circa 70 AD. Ç.). Its construction began under Emperor Vespasian and was completed when Titus, his son, was in power.
In total, it took six years to erect 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 the Roman gladiators.
When it was inaugurated by Emperor Tito, 100 days of games were held in the arenas. The attractions included executions, naval battles, gladiator fights, animal fights and hunting, among others.
Interior of the Coliseum in Rome
Some events held at the Coliseum had produced scenarios and many were based on the roman mythology.
The Coliseum in Rome has been 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 much of its valuable materials.
Curiosities about the Coliseum
Model of the Coliseum in Rome
- The Coliseum 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, corresponding to a two-story building.
- The Coliseum was built with concrete and sand. Also used were: stone, marble and tile.
- In Ancient Rome, it housed between 50 and 80,000 people. It had about 80 stairs, which made it easy for so many people to leave.
- During the Inaugural Games it is estimated that around 9,000 animals and 2,000 gladiators died.
- The Coliseum arena was built in wood. However, it gets its name since 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 Maenian, for the middle class; and the porticos, for the lower class.
- It was built on the site that suffered from a great fire during the rule of Emperor Nero.
Want to know more about the topic? Read the articles:
- Ancient Rome
- Roman art
- Roman architecture
- Roman Emperors
