Rome

 Coliseum

The Coliseum is the main symbol of Rome, an imposing building that is almost 2,000 years old, will set you back in time to discover what was the ancient society of the Roman Empire.

The construction of the Colosseum began in the year 72 under the regime of Vespasian and ended in AD 80 during the reign of Emperor Titus. After completion of construction the Colosseum became the largest Roman amphitheater, with dimensions of 188 meters long, 156 meters wide and 57 meters high.

The Colosseum in Antiquity

During the Roman Empire and under the slogan of "Pan et Circus", the Roman Coliseum (then known as Flavian Amphitheatre) allowed more than 50,000 people enjoy their favorite shows. Samples of exotic animals, executions of prisoners, re-enactments of battles and gladiator fights for years accompanied the Roman people.

The Coliseum remained active for more than 500 years. The last games in history were celebrated in the sixth century.

From the sixth century the Colosseum suffered looting, earthquakes and even bombings during World War II. With a great survival instinct, the Colosseum was used for decades as a store, church, cemetery and even as a castle for the nobility.

The Colosseum in the News

Colosseum in Rome, Remembering old times
Reminiscing
Colosseum in Rome, night
Colosseum at dusk
Currently the Coliseum, along with the Vatican, the biggest tourist attraction in Rome. Every year is visited by 6 million tourists. On July 7, 2007 the Coliseum became one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

Curiosities

The original name "Flavian Amphitheatre" was replaced by the Coliseum due to the large statue of Nero that was located at the entrance of the Domus Aurea, "The Colossus of Nero". The Domus Aurea was a great palace built under the orders of Nero after the fire of Rome.
Emperor Titus inaugurated the Colosseum with 100 days of games, which killed more than 2,000 gladiators.
The Coliseum had a canvas roof to protect people from the sun. Beneath the sand machinery and the cages were located.
There are several theories about the Colosseum was filled with water for the representation of naval battles, but so far there has been no conclusive research.
Every Good Friday the Pope presides over the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum. It has always been a very united to the church place and this day is reminiscent of the early Christians who died in the sand.