In this article, we explore the colorful history and features of the Colosseum, and reasons why you might want to visit this world famous attraction in Rome:. Aside from recognizing the famous exterior of this iconic structure, most people know very little about the Colosseum until they visit. Standing at the very heart of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum was an amphitheater that was built in 70 AD for the purpose of holding prisoners, animals and gladiators.
You might have noticed this building in certain movies such as Gladiator or Spartacus but either way, this is one of the most iconic and historical structures in the world. Stretching for 83 meters in length and 48 meters wide, this was an incredible feat in terms of architecture and now one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet.
In fact, the Colosseum was the largest amphitheater ever constructed and could hold up to 80, spectators on any occasion. Emperor Vespasian commissioned the construction of the Colosseum between 70 and 72 AD. In fact, more than 7, animals were said to be killed during these games and millions had attended the numerous events. For many centuries , the Colosseum was used for similar games, while the emperor continued to construct more and more tunnels and galleries beneath the structure.
There was even a church and cemetery, and also housing in which locals could rent their own private hideaway. However, the Frangipani family changed all of that by fortifying the castle and turning the Colosseum into a castle.
Despite being in near-constant use for over years, the structure is incredibly well preserved. Today, the partially restored Colosseum is one of the most visited sites in all of Rome. In , the Roman Colosseum was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, a distinction that is certainly justified.
The Colosseum was built just to the east of the Roman Forum and was the largest elliptical amphitheater ever built in the Roman Empire.
Measuring meters long by meters wide, the structure was designed to hold 55, spectators. The exterior of the Colosseum is made entirely of travertine stone and is four stories high.
The building has eighty arched entrances, which allowed for easy access for its spectators that included all classes of Roman society. The central area of the Colosseum, the arena, was covered with a great wooden floor and canvas to make it waterproof.
Over this was a layer of sand that was used to absorb blood. Used as a venue to entertain the public with games, mock sea battles, animal hunts, and competitions, it is probably most famous for its gladiator contests. Although the Colosseum stirs images of classic civilized early Roman life the reality is that thousands of animals and gladiators brutally lost their lives within the walls of the Colosseum all in the name of entertainment.
The Christian emperor Honorius outlawed the gladiator contests in AD and fights with wild animals were banned in AD bringing to an end the bloody legacy of the Colosseum.
By the late 6th century the Colosseum was being used for other purposes such as housing, workshops, a fortress, a quarry, and a Christian shrine. In , an earthquake caused severe damage to the Colosseum and collapsed much of the south side of the structure. The masses could sit and watch the events from here.
As a visitor today, you can check out the exterior as well as the interior architecture structure on this floor. The masses could watch the events from the first and second tier. An unobstructed view of the entire city, the arena and the hypogeum below. The corridor in the Colosseum. The section of the arena which has been reconstructed. As you enter the arena, be ready for airport-style security, regardless of whether you have the skip-the-line tickets or you are part of a guided tour.
Security has been beefed up in recent times, leading to even longer queues, particularly at peak times like during holidays and festivals. You are allowed to carry small handbags and backpacks into the Colosseum. But heavy luggage is forbidden. Naturally, firecrackers, knives and weapons are forbidden too, as are glass bottles. You are allowed to bring plastic bottles, providing you empty them before entering. To ensure an unforgettable visit to the Colosseum, here are some great insider tips: You should visit the Colosseum during both day and night.
Buy a combination ticket at the Palatine Hill counter. Queues are shorter there as compared to the queue at the Colosseum entrance which will save you time. Book your tickets in advance. At least with an online ticket, you are in line for the security check only. The least hectic time to get into the Colosseum is after Entry to the Colosseum is free the first Sunday of every month.
Since the Colosseum is usually crowded, pick-pocketers can take advantage. Keep your belongings safe and try not to flaunt money and valuables. If visiting Rome from March to December, make the most of exploring the Colosseum at night.
The entrance fee is a bit higher than for regular visits, but it is worth it. Selfie sticks are banned inside the Colosseum, so they are better left at the hotel.
Wear comfortable shoes for the tour, as there are plenty of stairs to climb inside the Colosseum. Bring a hat for mid-day trips. Published by Lisa Hopp, updated on May 7, Tweet. Create your custom-made trip to Italy Travelling to Italy? Matteo Piccardi. Antonio Mauriello. Danilo Catania. Start Here.
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