Introduction
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an elliptical amphitheater in the center of Rome. It is a freestanding structure of stone and concrete, using a complex system of barrel vaults and groin vaults. The Colosseum is a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors annually. It stands as a testament to the power and magnificence of the Roman Empire.
The Colosseum, an iconic symbol of the Roman Empire, is the largest amphitheater ever built and remains the largest standing amphitheater in the world, despite its age. The Colosseum's name comes from the word 'Colosse', which designates a particularly tall and strong being.
Quick Facts
Name: Colosseum
Location: Rome, Italy
Year Established: Construction began in 72 A.D. and was completed in 80 A.D. Further changes were made during the reign of Domitian (r. 81–96)
UNESCO Status: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Height/Dimensions: 48 meters (157 ft) high, 189 meters (615 ft) long, and 156 meters (510 ft) wide
Visitor Stats: Millions of visitors each year
Table of Content
Historical Context
Origins:
The Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty around 70-72 A.D. Vespasian intended it as a gift to the Roman people, aiming to provide entertainment and win public support after a period of turmoil and civil war.
The location was chosen intentionally, on the site of Emperor Nero's former lake within his Golden House complex, symbolizing a return of public land from the control of a tyrannical ruler. The construction was part of an imperial effort to revitalize Rome.
Transformation Over Time:
Construction was completed in 80 A.D., during the reign of Emperor Titus, Vespasian's successor. Further modifications were made during the reign of Domitian (r. 81–96).
The Colosseum was used for about five centuries, hosting gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, war reenactments, plays, and executions. It is estimated that 400,000 people and one million animals died there.
Cultural and Political Role:
The Colosseum served as a tool for political control and social order in ancient Rome. The spectacles held there were a means for Roman emperors to demonstrate their power, connect with the people, and distract them from political issues. Victorious battle reenactments fostered a spirit of Roman imperial prowess, and the courage of gladiators symbolized the might of the Roman warrior. The Colosseum symbolized the power and glory of the Roman Empire.
Moreover, the sheer scale of the Colosseum, capable of housing over fifty thousand spectators, was a symbol of Rome's greatness. Today, the Colosseum stands as a monument to ancient Rome's architectural and engineering prowess and is a major tourist attraction.
Historical Context
Origins:
The Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty around 70-72 A.D. Vespasian intended it as a gift to the Roman people, aiming to provide entertainment and win public support after a period of turmoil and civil war.
The location was chosen intentionally, on the site of Emperor Nero's former lake within his Golden House complex, symbolizing a return of public land from the control of a tyrannical ruler. The construction was part of an imperial effort to revitalize Rome.
Transformation Over Time:
Construction was completed in 80 A.D., during the reign of Emperor Titus, Vespasian's successor. Further modifications were made during the reign of Domitian (r. 81–96).
The Colosseum was used for about five centuries, hosting gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, war reenactments, plays, and executions. It is estimated that 400,000 people and one million animals died there.
Cultural and Political Role:
The Colosseum served as a tool for political control and social order in ancient Rome. The spectacles held there were a means for Roman emperors to demonstrate their power, connect with the people, and distract them from political issues. Victorious battle reenactments fostered a spirit of Roman imperial prowess, and the courage of gladiators symbolized the might of the Roman warrior. The Colosseum symbolized the power and glory of the Roman Empire.
Moreover, the sheer scale of the Colosseum, capable of housing over fifty thousand spectators, was a symbol of Rome's greatness. Today, the Colosseum stands as a monument to ancient Rome's architectural and engineering prowess and is a major tourist attraction.
Architectural or Natural Significance
Unique Features:
The Colosseum displays the prominent architectural style of ancient Rome, known as Roman architecture, and is characterized by arches, vaults, and concrete construction techniques. The exterior facade features four stories of arches, known as arcades, creating a visually striking and structurally sound design.
The columns that link the vertical tiers of the Colosseum are influenced by Greek styles of architecture. The ground floor columns were done in the Tuscan style, the second floor featured Ionic columns, and the third floor employed the more intricate and decorated Corinthian style. The Colosseum was conceived as a testament to Rome’s might. At the time of its completion, it was the most complex man-made structure in the world and one of the largest.
Design and Construction:
The Colosseum is a freestanding structure of stone and concrete, using a complex system of barrel vaults and groin vaults. It was built from an estimated 100,000 cubic meters of travertine stone, plus a similar measure of Roman cement, bricks, and tuff blocks. The exterior of the building is divided into four levels that add up to a total height of about 50 meters.
The main structural framework and facade are travertine, the secondary walls are volcanic tufa, and the inner bowl and the arcade vaults are concrete. The arches provided strength and distributed the weight evenly, allowing for the construction of large open spaces. Concrete, a versatile and durable material, was used extensively. The concrete mixture consisted of lime, volcanic rock, and other materials. It allowed for the creation of strong and solid walls, providing stability and support for the structure.
Renovation and Conservation:
The outer wall is estimated to have required over 100,000 cubic metres of travertine stone which were set without mortar but held together by 300 tons of iron clamps. The north side of the perimeter wall is still standing; the distinctive triangular brick wedges at each end are modern additions, constructed in the early 19th century to shore up the wall. The remainder of the present-day exterior of the Colosseum is in fact the original interior wall.
Architectural or Natural Significance
Unique Features:
The Colosseum displays the prominent architectural style of ancient Rome, known as Roman architecture, and is characterized by arches, vaults, and concrete construction techniques. The exterior facade features four stories of arches, known as arcades, creating a visually striking and structurally sound design.
The columns that link the vertical tiers of the Colosseum are influenced by Greek styles of architecture. The ground floor columns were done in the Tuscan style, the second floor featured Ionic columns, and the third floor employed the more intricate and decorated Corinthian style. The Colosseum was conceived as a testament to Rome’s might. At the time of its completion, it was the most complex man-made structure in the world and one of the largest.
Design and Construction:
The Colosseum is a freestanding structure of stone and concrete, using a complex system of barrel vaults and groin vaults. It was built from an estimated 100,000 cubic meters of travertine stone, plus a similar measure of Roman cement, bricks, and tuff blocks. The exterior of the building is divided into four levels that add up to a total height of about 50 meters.
The main structural framework and facade are travertine, the secondary walls are volcanic tufa, and the inner bowl and the arcade vaults are concrete. The arches provided strength and distributed the weight evenly, allowing for the construction of large open spaces. Concrete, a versatile and durable material, was used extensively. The concrete mixture consisted of lime, volcanic rock, and other materials. It allowed for the creation of strong and solid walls, providing stability and support for the structure.
Renovation and Conservation:
The outer wall is estimated to have required over 100,000 cubic metres of travertine stone which were set without mortar but held together by 300 tons of iron clamps. The north side of the perimeter wall is still standing; the distinctive triangular brick wedges at each end are modern additions, constructed in the early 19th century to shore up the wall. The remainder of the present-day exterior of the Colosseum is in fact the original interior wall.
Cultural and Symbolic Importance
Role in Local Traditions:
The Colosseum was primarily dedicated to hosting grand spectacles and providing entertainment to the citizens of Rome. The Colosseum hosted various public spectacles, including gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and mock naval battles.
These events provided amusement, excitement, and a sense of civic pride. The spectacles served as a means for the Roman emperors to demonstrate their power and connect with the people. By staging grandiose events, the emperors aimed to keep the citizens entertained and distract them from political issues.
Symbolism:
The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome, representing the grandeur and power of ancient Rome. The Colosseum symbolizes the importance of leisure and public entertainment in Roman society. The gladiatorial contests, in particular, have become synonymous with the Colosseum and evoke images of ancient Roman culture and the valor and brutality of the gladiators.
It also stands as a symbol of the power, genius, and brutality of the Roman Empire. The Colosseum functioned as a propaganda tool, putting on display the power of the Romans. Serving as a reminder of the importance of the Flavian dynasty, it bought the Emperor, for a time, popularity with the people.
Recognition:
The Colosseum has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1980, underscoring its global significance. As a cultural landmark, it represents not only Rome but also the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire. It has become a major cultural and historical landmark, contributing to Rome’s tourism industry and local economy.
Cultural and Symbolic Importance
Role in Local Traditions:
The Colosseum was primarily dedicated to hosting grand spectacles and providing entertainment to the citizens of Rome. The Colosseum hosted various public spectacles, including gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and mock naval battles.
These events provided amusement, excitement, and a sense of civic pride. The spectacles served as a means for the Roman emperors to demonstrate their power and connect with the people. By staging grandiose events, the emperors aimed to keep the citizens entertained and distract them from political issues.
Symbolism:
The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome, representing the grandeur and power of ancient Rome. The Colosseum symbolizes the importance of leisure and public entertainment in Roman society. The gladiatorial contests, in particular, have become synonymous with the Colosseum and evoke images of ancient Roman culture and the valor and brutality of the gladiators.
It also stands as a symbol of the power, genius, and brutality of the Roman Empire. The Colosseum functioned as a propaganda tool, putting on display the power of the Romans. Serving as a reminder of the importance of the Flavian dynasty, it bought the Emperor, for a time, popularity with the people.
Recognition:
The Colosseum has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1980, underscoring its global significance. As a cultural landmark, it represents not only Rome but also the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire. It has become a major cultural and historical landmark, contributing to Rome’s tourism industry and local economy.
Visitor Information
Location:
Address: The Colosseum is located in the heart of Rome, Italy, near the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, at Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.
Hours, Fees, and Amenities:
Opening Hours/Hours of Operation:
The Colosseum is open every day except for January 1st and December 25th.
Opening hours are seasonal and depend on the time of year.
Tickets:
The Ordinary ticket 24h and the Only Arena 24h ticket.
All Colosseum tickets include admission to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Amenities:
There are restrooms on site.
Accessibility:
The Colosseum is mostly wheelchair friendly. The main entrance has no stairs, and there is an elevator that takes visitors to the upper floor. The ground floor is fully accessible, and there is an elevator to the second tier, which is also accessible.
The underground area, however, is not accessible by wheelchair. The Colosseum has one wheelchair available for visitors on each level.
Pro Tips:
Time your visit carefully to avoid crowds. Book your entry for 9 AM, as the doors are opening, or an hour before closing time. Weekdays are slightly less crowded than weekends. Pre-book your tickets to skip the ticket line to avoid crowds.
There’s little shade, so wear a hat and sunscreen during the summer. In the wet fall and spring seasons, bring a small umbrella or waterproof jacket. In winter, wear layers.
Visitors are not allowed to enter with large bags, suitcases, or backpacks. Small and medium-sized bags are allowed but will be screened by security.
Touring with a guide is the best way to visit the Colosseum. A typical visit to the Colosseum, including the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, takes around 2-3 hours.
Visitor Information
Location:
Address: The Colosseum is located in the heart of Rome, Italy, near the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, at Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.
Hours, Fees, and Amenities:
Opening Hours/Hours of Operation:
The Colosseum is open every day except for January 1st and December 25th.
Opening hours are seasonal and depend on the time of year.
Tickets:
The Ordinary ticket 24h and the Only Arena 24h ticket.
All Colosseum tickets include admission to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Amenities:
There are restrooms on site.
Accessibility:
The Colosseum is mostly wheelchair friendly. The main entrance has no stairs, and there is an elevator that takes visitors to the upper floor. The ground floor is fully accessible, and there is an elevator to the second tier, which is also accessible.
The underground area, however, is not accessible by wheelchair. The Colosseum has one wheelchair available for visitors on each level.
Pro Tips:
Time your visit carefully to avoid crowds. Book your entry for 9 AM, as the doors are opening, or an hour before closing time. Weekdays are slightly less crowded than weekends. Pre-book your tickets to skip the ticket line to avoid crowds.
There’s little shade, so wear a hat and sunscreen during the summer. In the wet fall and spring seasons, bring a small umbrella or waterproof jacket. In winter, wear layers.
Visitors are not allowed to enter with large bags, suitcases, or backpacks. Small and medium-sized bags are allowed but will be screened by security.
Touring with a guide is the best way to visit the Colosseum. A typical visit to the Colosseum, including the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, takes around 2-3 hours.
Local Experiences and Stories
Cultural Activities:
The Colosseum now hosts modern-day gladiator shows that feature reenactments of ancient battles with spectacular audio and visual effects, aiming to preserve the traditions of ancient Rome while providing captivating entertainment for visitors. These reenactments showcase gladiators in authentic armor engaging in choreographed fights, offering a glimpse into the combat skills and weaponry of the time.
Visitors can witness thrilling clashes between different types of gladiators and live demonstrations of ancient battle tactics, enhanced by immersive soundscapes and vivid lighting.
In ancient Rome, mythological re-enactments took place during the ludi meridiani (midday spectacle). Spectacles transformed mythic tales into grand, often violent performances that celebrated Roman values, legitimized imperial rule, and entertained the masses. The Roman theater often staged adaptations of mythological tales, and naumachiae, or mock naval battles, recreated famous sea battles or mythic episodes involving maritime themes.
Visitor Anecdotes:
For the first time in nearly 2000 years, the Colosseum is returning to its original purpose as a venue for performances.
Hidden Gems:
The Mythological Re-Enactments
Lesser-known variation of Roman spectacle is the mythological re-enactments that took place during the ludi meridiani (midday spectacle). The Colosseum's design included a sophisticated system of tunnels and lifts; it could seat up to 50,000 spectators from different social classes across Roman society.
Local Experiences and Stories
Cultural Activities:
The Colosseum now hosts modern-day gladiator shows that feature reenactments of ancient battles with spectacular audio and visual effects, aiming to preserve the traditions of ancient Rome while providing captivating entertainment for visitors. These reenactments showcase gladiators in authentic armor engaging in choreographed fights, offering a glimpse into the combat skills and weaponry of the time.
Visitors can witness thrilling clashes between different types of gladiators and live demonstrations of ancient battle tactics, enhanced by immersive soundscapes and vivid lighting.
In ancient Rome, mythological re-enactments took place during the ludi meridiani (midday spectacle). Spectacles transformed mythic tales into grand, often violent performances that celebrated Roman values, legitimized imperial rule, and entertained the masses. The Roman theater often staged adaptations of mythological tales, and naumachiae, or mock naval battles, recreated famous sea battles or mythic episodes involving maritime themes.
Visitor Anecdotes:
For the first time in nearly 2000 years, the Colosseum is returning to its original purpose as a venue for performances.
Hidden Gems:
The Mythological Re-Enactments
Lesser-known variation of Roman spectacle is the mythological re-enactments that took place during the ludi meridiani (midday spectacle). The Colosseum's design included a sophisticated system of tunnels and lifts; it could seat up to 50,000 spectators from different social classes across Roman society.
Trivia and Fun Facts
Did You Know?
1,900 years’ old
The Colosseum is over 1,900 years old, with construction having begun in 72 A.D. and finished in 80 A.D.
Flavian Amphitheater
The Colosseum was initially named the Flavian Amphitheater, after the Flavian Dynasty of emperors.
Jewish slaves
The Colosseum was built by tens of thousands of Jewish slaves brought to Rome by Emperor Vespasian.
Artificial lake
The Colosseum was built on top of an artificial lake that was drained to make way for the amphitheater. The lake was part of Nero's Golden House, which was demolished to make way for the Colosseum.
The Hypogeum
The Colosseum had a complex system of underground tunnels and chambers called the hypogeum, which housed gladiators, animals, and machinery for special effects. The hypogeum was only rediscovered in the 19th century.
Trivia and Fun Facts
Did You Know?
1,900 years’ old
The Colosseum is over 1,900 years old, with construction having begun in 72 A.D. and finished in 80 A.D.
Flavian Amphitheater
The Colosseum was initially named the Flavian Amphitheater, after the Flavian Dynasty of emperors.
Jewish slaves
The Colosseum was built by tens of thousands of Jewish slaves brought to Rome by Emperor Vespasian.
Artificial lake
The Colosseum was built on top of an artificial lake that was drained to make way for the amphitheater. The lake was part of Nero's Golden House, which was demolished to make way for the Colosseum.
The Hypogeum
The Colosseum had a complex system of underground tunnels and chambers called the hypogeum, which housed gladiators, animals, and machinery for special effects. The hypogeum was only rediscovered in the 19th century.
Preservation and Sustainability
Challenges:
The Colosseum faces numerous preservation hurdles, including balancing tourism demands with structural integrity. Earthquakes, fires, human neglect, natural weathering, and pollution have taken their toll, necessitating ongoing restoration and conservation efforts.
Air pollution, acid rain, and vehicle emissions slowly erode the stonework, while climate change introduces new risks, with more frequent extreme weather events potentially destabilizing the amphitheater’s foundations. Foot traffic and vibrations from guided tours can damage delicate mosaics and stonework.
Current Initiatives:
A comprehensive restoration project was undertaken at the end of the 20th century. The project included cleaning and repairing the exterior, restoring seating areas, and taking measures to minimize the effects of pollution and seismic activity.
Specialized techniques, such as laser cleaning and stone restoration, are used to preserve the original material and minimize damage. Advanced technologies such as drones and 3D scanning are being used to assess the condition of the Colosseum and guide restoration efforts. Steel braces have been installed to help support the structure and prevent further deterioration.
How Visitors Can Help:
Visitor management strategies have been implemented to reduce the impact of tourism. Guided tours are limited in size and frequency, and access to sensitive areas is restricted. Timed entry and online booking systems help regulate visitor numbers and minimize crowding. Tourists can minimize their impact by respecting site boundaries and refraining from touching or climbing on the stonework.
Preservation and Sustainability
Challenges:
The Colosseum faces numerous preservation hurdles, including balancing tourism demands with structural integrity. Earthquakes, fires, human neglect, natural weathering, and pollution have taken their toll, necessitating ongoing restoration and conservation efforts.
Air pollution, acid rain, and vehicle emissions slowly erode the stonework, while climate change introduces new risks, with more frequent extreme weather events potentially destabilizing the amphitheater’s foundations. Foot traffic and vibrations from guided tours can damage delicate mosaics and stonework.
Current Initiatives:
A comprehensive restoration project was undertaken at the end of the 20th century. The project included cleaning and repairing the exterior, restoring seating areas, and taking measures to minimize the effects of pollution and seismic activity.
Specialized techniques, such as laser cleaning and stone restoration, are used to preserve the original material and minimize damage. Advanced technologies such as drones and 3D scanning are being used to assess the condition of the Colosseum and guide restoration efforts. Steel braces have been installed to help support the structure and prevent further deterioration.
How Visitors Can Help:
Visitor management strategies have been implemented to reduce the impact of tourism. Guided tours are limited in size and frequency, and access to sensitive areas is restricted. Timed entry and online booking systems help regulate visitor numbers and minimize crowding. Tourists can minimize their impact by respecting site boundaries and refraining from touching or climbing on the stonework.
Nearby Attractions and Itineraries
Complementary Sites:
Roman Forum
Palatine Hill
Basilica di San Clemente
Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo
Circo Massimo
Temple of Hercules Victor
La Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth
Teatro Marcello
Suggested Itineraries:
Full-Day:
Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and nearby areas such as the Basilica di San Clemente and Circo Massimo. Consider visiting Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto.
Nearby Attractions and Itineraries
Complementary Sites:
Roman Forum
Palatine Hill
Basilica di San Clemente
Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo
Circo Massimo
Temple of Hercules Victor
La Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth
Teatro Marcello
Suggested Itineraries:
Full-Day:
Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and nearby areas such as the Basilica di San Clemente and Circo Massimo. Consider visiting Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto.
Further Material
Further Reading:
Online Guides: Free online guides provide information on the history of the Colosseum and tips for visiting.
Guided Tours: Booking a guided tour can enhance the visitor experience with expert insights into the Colosseum's history and secrets.
Official Website: The official website of the Parco archeologico del Colosseo provides a wealth of information about the Colosseum and surrounding areas, including opening times, ticket information, and upcoming events.
Further Material
Further Reading:
Online Guides: Free online guides provide information on the history of the Colosseum and tips for visiting.
Guided Tours: Booking a guided tour can enhance the visitor experience with expert insights into the Colosseum's history and secrets.
Official Website: The official website of the Parco archeologico del Colosseo provides a wealth of information about the Colosseum and surrounding areas, including opening times, ticket information, and upcoming events.
Call to Action
Book Tickets: Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the line and secure your preferred time slot.
Guided Tours: Enhance your experience with a guided tour led by knowledgeable experts.
Nearby Accommodations: Find hotels and accommodations near the Colosseum for a convenient and immersive stay.