4.7
(191)

Roman Colosseum

The Roman Colosseum is a testament to ancient Rome’s grandeur and engineering prowess. 

This iconic amphitheater, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was constructed in the heart of Rome and completed in AD 80. 

Its colossal size and innovative architecture allowed it to host spectacular gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and public spectacles, captivating audiences of up to 80,000 spectators. 

As a symbol of Roman entertainment and culture, it remains a must-visit historical landmark, drawing millions of tourists worldwide each year to marvel at its impressive ruins and immerse themselves in its rich history.

The facts about the Colosseum Rome state that it got its name from the enormous bronze statue of Emperor Nero. 

The bronze statue stands next to the building, modeled on the Colossus of Rhodes.

The Flavian king constructed the largest theater in the world for entertaining Romans.

Note: Book your Rome Colosseum tour tickets in advance to know more about its rich history. Enjoy priority access at just €54!

Historical Evolution of the Colosseum

Roman Colosseum facts and history date back to 72 AD as a Flavian Amphitheatre.

Different eras saw its change following its construction in 80 AD. 

Until the late 5th century, it displayed gladiatorial combat and wild animal hunting.

It evolved into a chapel and cemetery with homes and stores in the latter half of the 6th century.

The Frangipani family transformed it into a fortified castle in the 12th century.

The 1349 earthquake destroyed the Colosseum to a significant extent.

Historical highlights show significant structural stripping occurring between the 14th and 18th centuries.

Other buildings in Rome developed using these demolished construction components.

Various Popes and governments conducted many restoration efforts.

Between 2013 and 2016, extensive cleaning of the building walls took place.

Facts to know about the Colosseum

Being one of the most iconic ancient landmarks, it is steeped in fascinating history. Here are some key facts to know about this impressive amphitheater:

Historical Significance

The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty in AD 70-72 and completed in AD 80 by his successor, Titus. It was primarily used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and mock sea battles.

Massive Dimensions

The attraction is an architectural marvel boasting a massive elliptical structure. It measures about 189 meters long, 156 meters wide, and 48 meters tall, accommodating an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 spectators.

Ingenious Design

The amphitheater’s innovative design features a complex system of ramps, corridors, and underground tunnels to facilitate the movement of gladiators, animals, and props between the arena and other sections.

Remarkable Construction

Constructed using concrete and sand, the Colosseum showcases Roman’s engineering prowess. Its exterior was adorned with travertine limestone and marble, creating a magnificent facade that once dazzled onlookers.

Tragic Events

The monument hosted many events, from gladiator battles and animal hunts to reenactments of famous battles. Unfortunately, these spectacles often result in the loss of human lives and the extinction of some animal species.

Christian Martyrs

It also played a dark role in early Christian history, with numerous accounts of Christian martyrs facing persecution and execution within its walls.

Decline and Restoration

The Colosseum fell into disrepair after centuries of use due to earthquakes and stone looting. However, significant restoration efforts began in the 18th century, helping to preserve this ancient wonder for future generations.

Note: Today, the Roman Colosseum stands as a symbol of ancient Rome’s grandeur. It attracts millions of visitors worldwide, offering a captivating glimpse into the past and a vivid reminder of the glories and tragedies of ancient Roman civilization.

Colosseum Underground and Arena

The sand-covered wooden Arena floor displayed animal battles and prisoner execution games in Rome. 

The elites and emperors enjoyed these actions, while the ordinary people remained distracted.

You can see the fantastic view of the Colosseum Underground Hypogeum from the remains of the Arena floor.

According to facts about the monument, Emperor Domitian erected the Underground later.

The Hypogeum included training grounds for gladiators, prisoner passages, and cells.

The Colosseum held Roman Catholic celebrations that increased its cultural and religious relevance. 

According to the historical facts of the monument, close to four lakh people died on it’s sands.

They slaughtered about a million animals, such as wolves, bears, and lions.

For the Underground tour, book your tickets online in advance since they get sold out quickly.

Note: Do you prefer self-guided tours? We have you covered with our most recommended Colosseum self-guided tour which has the option for a video guide.

Roman Colosseum’s History FAQs

Can anybody enter the Roman Colosseum?

Anybody can enter the Colosseum for its tour. Visitors access the main portions of the attraction.

These include the seating spaces, hallways, and Underground chambers. Due to current restoration work, some locations have restricted access.

Is the Colosseum a UNESCO World Heritage site?

In 1980, UNESCO recognized the Colosseum as a World Heritage site. More than a million tourists from all over the world come here.

Many restoration works started after UNESCO declared it a heritage site.In 2021, the Underground opened to the public.

In 2021, the underground opened for the public.

How did the Roman Colosseum change throughout time?

The Colosseum has endured natural calamities, theft, and neglect. It was a medium as a quarry for building materials and sustained earthquake damage. 

Yet, initiatives were there to conserve and restore this important historical site

How was the Colosseum in Rome given its name?

The enormous statue of Emperor Nero that stood close to the word “Colosseum” came from. 

The statue, the Colossus of Nero, was later taken down. But the ‘amphitheater’ or public theater retained its name.

When was the Colosseum in Rome constructed?

Emperor Vespasian ordered work to start on the Colosseum in 72 AD. His son Titus finished it in 80 AD.

It took eight years to complete the construction. 

How big is the Colosseum in Rome?

The Colosseum houses the most prominent theater, and this historical art piece stood at the city’s center for ages. 

Its central axis measures 620 feet (189 meters), and the minor axis measures 513 feet (156 meters).

How many lives ended on the Colosseum and the Arena floor?

The facts about the Colosseum state that about 400,000 humans and one million animals died there.

Such killings continued for centuries till such action finally stopped.

Featured Image: Noppasin Wongchum

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!


The Arena Of The Colosseum
Under the colosseum