Exploring the Remarkable Colosseum Arena Floor
Step into the grandeur of ancient Rome at the Colosseum, where history echoes in every stone.
Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it was built in the 1st century AD. It depicts the beauty and tragedy of Roman history.
Every year, more than seven million tourists visit this 2000-year-old attraction. It was used for gladiatorial contests and other spectator sports.
The upper primary levels of the Colosseum have deteriorated or collapsed over time.
Its innovative design, with a complex system of seating tiers and underground passages, allowed for efficient crowd control and facilitated the smooth flow of events.
Feel the echoes of history as you explore, and let the stories of an empire engraved in its walls transport you through time.
How many Floors are there in the Colosseum?
Are you looking for the ultimate way to experience the Colosseum?
Then don’t miss out on this opportunity to go onto the Arena Floor, where you can experience being in the same place where gladiators once fought battles.
The amphitheater had four levels for different social groups, with the lower levels for important people and the top levels for regular people.
The ground floor, known as the Arena, was where the gladiators fought and events took place.
The original Colosseum floors were divided on the basis of the population they catered to:
- Podium: This was the VIP section just above the arena, reserved for Rome’s elite, like senators and high-ranking officials.
- Maenianum Primum: This was the first tier of seating above the podium and was reserved for the equestrian class—the second-highest social class in ancient Rome.
- Maenianum Secundum: This floor was directly above the Maenianum Primum, the second level of seating. This section was designated for ordinary Roman citizens, also known as plebeians.
- Maenianum Secundum in Legneis: This was the third level of seating added later on to accommodate more visitors. It was above the maenianum secundum and was made of wood.
- Summa Cavea: This was the topmost level in the Colosseum. Here, the poorest members of Roman society, including women and slaves, found their place to observe the spectacle.
Due to centuries of wear and tear, only remnants of the original structure are visible today.
You can still explore the various levels of the Colosseum and imagine the vibrant scenes that once unfolded within its walls.
So, why not explore each floor with the most budget-friendly Colosseum entry ticket now?
History
The Arena floor of the Colosseum in Rome was like the main stage where all the action happened.
It’s where gladiators fought fierce battles, and animals roamed during exciting hunts. They fought each other till death.
People from all walks of life gathered around this floor to watch the thrilling events unfold.
The space where fights took place was linked to a place called the Ludus, where the best fighters got trained.
Today, there is only one school like this near the Colosseum. It is called Ludus Magnus. You can visit it during your tour.
The gladiator games likely began to honor the nobility through funeral rituals.
Wealthy and influential people funded these games to entertain the common folk and gain their support.
Emperor Titus even funded a hundred days of continuous games. However, this brutal tradition came to an end by Constantine in 325 CE.
Architecture
Have you ever wondered what makes the Arena so captivating? Let’s delve into the heart of this ancient marvel and discover its secrets together.
Visit ancient Rome’s famous Colosseum to see different architectural styles from ancient times.
- The ground floor columns were created in the Tuscan style, a Roman adaptation of the simple Greek Doric style.
- The ornate columns on the second level contributed an air of refinement through their more intricate form. With an Ionic design, these architectural features brought a sense of sophistication.
- The third level of the structure showcases ornate Corinthian columns, renowned for their intricate detailing. These columns stand out for their elaborate ornamentation.
The dimensions of the Colosseum floor are approximately 83 meters (272 feet) in length and 48 meters (157 feet) in width.
Its floor contained trap doors to enhance theatrical effects and was surrounded by a towering 10-foot wall, framing unforgettable experiences that engaged the masses.
The Arena wall was crafted from striking red and black stone blocks, creating a stark contrast with the predominantly white exterior.
This deliberate choice symbolized the intense and often brutal events that unfolded within the Arena.
Underneath the Colosseum Arena floor existed an intricate network of passageways and rooms called the hypogeum, which enabled the production of grand displays.
Today, you can walk on the same ground and imagine what it must have been like to be part of the ancient spectacles.
Note: Don’t miss out on any aspect of the attraction and book the Colosseum tour with access to the Roman Forum, Arena, and Underground.
Things to see
Here are some of the things you can see on the Colosseum Arena floor:
The Underground Hypogeum
Discover the complex system of passageways and rooms under the ground of the Arena, where fighters and creatures were kept before their shows.
The Remains of Trap Doors
Step back in time and explore the remnants of trap doors used to release fighters, animals, and scenery onto the Arena floor, adding to the excitement of the spectacle.
The Reconstructed Arena Surface
Walk on the reconstructed Arena floor, made of wood and covered with sand, just like it was in ancient times.
Views of the Amphitheater
Enjoy panoramic views of the Colosseum from the Arena floor and capture stunning photos of the iconic amphitheater and the surrounding ancient ruins.
Interactive Exhibits
Engage with interactive exhibits and displays that bring the history of the Colosseum and its events to life.
Insider tips for visitors
- Respect the historical place by not touching or climbing the antique buildings.
- Plan your visit around sunset for stunning views of the Colosseum in golden light.
- Consider going during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
- Look for signage and information boards to learn about the various sections of the Arena Floor.
- Keep a watch out for animals, including birds nesting in the Colosseum’s arches.
- Look for graffiti left by tourists from decades ago, which provide insight into the Colosseum’s continuing fascination.
Which tickets to book?
Choosing the right tickets for the Roman Colosseum will truly make your trip worthwhile, so here are our top picks to make your decision easy:
| Colosseum tickets | Adult ticket (18+ years) price |
|---|---|
| Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Mamertine Prison Entry Ticket | €9 to €29 |
| Priority Entrance & Sightseeing Bus Tour | €34 |
| Priority Access, Roman Forum, Palatine Guided Tour | €55 to €75 |
| Underground & Ancient Rome Tour | €108 |
| Underground & Arena Floor Night Tour | €123 |
FAQs
Which is the best ticket to explore the Arena floor of the Colosseum in Rome?
Book a guided tour with Arena floor access to fully experience the Arena floor of the Colosseum in Rome. This will offer unparalleled insights into the ancient spectacles held within this iconic amphitheater.
What was the floor of the Colosseum made of?
The Arena floor of the Colosseum was crafted from sturdy wooden panels. This laid a solid foundation for the dramatic events that unfolded within its walls. It was covered with a layer of sand from the nearby Monte Mario hill to enhance authenticity.
Why was sand used on the floor of the Colosseum?
The sand was used on the floor of the Colosseum for absorbing blood, providing traction and maintaining authenticity by recreating the atmosphere of ancient Arenas with sand-covered floors.
How big is the floor of the Colosseum?
The floor of the Colosseum measures approximately 83 meters (272 feet) in length and 48 meters (157 feet) in width.
Why was the floor of the Colosseum removed?
In the 19th century, archaeologists removed the complete floor of the Colosseum to reveal the network of structures and tunnels underneath, known as the hypogeum.
How many gladiators died on the floor of the Colosseum?
Around 400,000 gladiators, enslaved people and prisoners lost their lives in the Arena’s brutal battles over the centuries.
Is the Arena Floor accessible to all visitors?
No, the Colosseum Arena Floor is not accessible to everyone. You’ll need a special guided tour to go into this restricted region and stand where gladiators once battled.
Can I touch any of the ancient structures on the Arena Floor?
Touching the arena floor and other old structures is not permitted for preservation reasons. You can still go up close for a nice view!
Featured Image: DanFLCreativo