Colosseum in Rome: A majestic symbol of the Ancient world

Built between 70–80 AD by order of Emperor Vespasian and completed under his son Titus, the Colosseum served as an arena for gladiator fights and other spectacles, accommodating up to 50,000 spectators.

The architecture of the Colosseum is awe-inspiring in its grandeur: a four-story structure about 50 meters high with a system of arches and columns.

Constructed from concrete and stone, its facade is adorned with Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian columns, reflecting the skill of Roman architects. The design allowed for the rapid filling and emptying of the arena, ensuring convenience for spectators.

Under the arena lay a system of tunnels and rooms where gladiators and wild animals were kept.

5 Interesting Facts About the Colosseum in Rome

1. The original name was the Flavian Amphitheatre. The Colosseum was built between 70-80 AD under the emperors of the Flavian dynasty: Vespasian and his son Titus.
2. Capacity — The Colosseum could hold up to 50,000 spectators. It was used for gladiator fights, wild animal hunts, and even naval battles (naumachia) when the arena was flooded with water.
3. Engineering marvel — The Colosseum had a retractable roof (velarium) that protected spectators from the sun and rain. The canopy was stretched using a complex system of ropes and masts.
4. Use after the fall of Rome — After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum stopped being used for spectacles and became a source of building materials; its stone was used for the construction of churches and palaces.
5. Earthquakes and destruction — The Colosseum suffered damage from several powerful earthquakes during the Middle Ages, which destroyed part of its structure, but even in ruins, it remains a symbol of ancient Roman architecture and culture.

Today, the Colosseum is one of Rome's main attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can walk through the ancient corridors and ascend to the upper tiers to feel the atmosphere of ancient times.

It is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues. And on the first Sunday of the month, admission is always free.