ITALY // A monument to raw power, this massive amphitheatre is Rome's most thrilling ancient sight. Gladiators met here in mortal combat, and condemned prisoners fought off wild beasts in front of baying hordes. Crowds of 50,000 would have poured through the 80 entrance arches, jockeying for a top view into the pit. Guided tours take in the subterranean hypogeum, where the full gore of this Roman game show comes to life. Despite the gruesome realities, there's no denying the grace of the arena, which now glows a peachy pink after a 33-month deep clean.
What is Colosseum known for?
The Colosseum in Rome, Italy is a large amphitheater that hosted events such as gladiatorial games. Design Pics Inc. The Colosseum, also called the Flavian Amphitheater, is a large amphitheater in Rome. This building was built during the time of the Flavian emperors as a gift to the Roman people.
Why is the Colosseum so great?
A status symbol for Rome
In its time, the Colosseum represented the great power of the Roman Empire and its position as the center of the ancient world. Its impressive stadium structure was also a symbol of the great engineering genius of the Romans, begun under Vespasian and completed by his son Titus.
How big the Colosseum was and when it was built?
Measuring 620 by 513 feet (190 by 155 m), the Colosseum was the largest amphitheater in the Roman world. Unlike many earlier amphitheatres, which were dug into hillsides to provide adequate support, the Colosseum was a freestanding structure of stone and concrete.
What's inside the Colosseum?
Some of the highlights inside the Colosseum include the Emperor's Box, the Gladiator's Gate, the Arena, the Hypogeums, and three floors that serve different purposes.
What are the secrets of the Colosseum?
It was full of secret passages and trap doors
Today, a network of tunnels and passages called the hypogeum is open to the air, but originally it was hidden under the floor of the hall. It housed animals, slaves, and gladiators ready to enter the arena through many hidden trap doors.
