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How many times can you visit the same landmark and not be bored?
In the case of the Roman Colosseum, I do not think there is a limit!
Having been to this architectural phenomenon at least five or six times, I never tire of seeing its structural prowess which has withstood the elements for so many years. I enjoy meandering through the passageways and gazing out on the arena which was the site of much action in its early years.
The area outside of the edifice has also long been a meeting point for those who live in the city as well as for visitors. Here you can simply revel in the view, have a refreshing beverage, cool off with a cup of gelato or take a photo with a Roman gladiator. You can also stroll around the neighboring Arch of Constantine, built in A.D. 315 in honor of Constantine I’s victory over Maxentius at Pons Milvius or through the Roman Forum, the ruins of several ancient government buildings and the site of an ancient marketplace.
But as many times as I have set foot in this awe-inspiring masterpiece, I always seem to learn something new.
A visit to the Colosseum is a walk through the past and there is much knowledge that I have gleaned from each of my visits. Take a look at many of the facts about the Roman Colosseum…how much did you know?
The Colosseum is also known as the Flavian Amphitheater.
The Emperor Vespasian, ordered the Colosseum built in the heart of Ancient Rome in 72 A.D. A gift to the Roman citizens, it was completed a short eight years later.
Ten of thousands of slaves built the free-standing structure from stone and concrete.
The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater in the world, measuring 186 meters long, 156 meters wide and 50 meters high!
80 separate entrances allowed for the ease of movement of 50,000 spectators into the building. Too bad more of these are not in use today…the lines to enter can be quite lengthy during the busiest times of the year.
There were three stories, each containing columns of a different style. The bottom columns were from the simple Doric order, the center, Ionic and the top, Corinthian.
Many events were held here, including gladiatorial contests and wild animal hunts. The arena could also be flooded and drained very quickly, allowing for the viewing of naval battles without heading to the coast.
The emperor’s enjoyed the entertainment so much that they not only organized the events but also paid for them, allowing for the free entry of those desiring to attend. By also providing food, they ensured their popularity and support.
Emperor Vespasian’s son, Titus, was the first to hold games to commemorate the completion of the Colosseum. These games continued for 100 days. Gladiatorial games continued until the fifth century and animal hunts until the sixth.
Although most gladiators were male, recorded history indicates that there were some female gladiators. Contrary to what most believe, however, gladiators were not noble, brave soldiers…most were slaves, condemned criminals or prisoners of war.
Those with weak constitutions were not encouraged to attend as many events were quite brutal. During certain games held by the emperors, around 10,000 animals were killed in a single day.
Despite the scorching mid-day sun, the spectators could enjoy the activities in the shade. An awning, called a velarium, could be pulled over the top of the seating areas.
A large number of rooms and underground passages were located beneath the Colosseum. Here, gladiators and animals waited to meet their fate. There were also thirty-six trap doors which could be used for special effects.
Vandalism, earthquakes and fires have destroyed about two thirds of the Colosseum over the years. During the 18th century, this mighty structure was used a source of building materials for other important buildings, including the cathedrals of St. Peter and St. John Lateran, the Palazzo Venezia and defense fortifications along the Tiber River.
Restoration efforts began in the 1990s and can still be seen continuing today. Funding from the admittance of thousands of visitors each year allow for the preservation of this mighty monument.
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- https://www.rome.info/colosseum/
- Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
- Hours: Last Sunday of October to February 15, 0830-1630, February 16 to March 15, 0830-1700, March 16 until last Saturday of March, 0830-1730, last Sunday of March to August 31, 0830-1915, September 1-September 30, 0830-1900, October 1 until last Saturday of October, 0830-1830. Closed December 25, January 1 and May 1.
- Admission: Ticket includes admission to Roman Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill and is valid for two days, Adults, €12.00. Reduced fee for European Union citizens between the ages of 18 and 25 and for EU teachers, €7.00. Visitors under the age of 17, Free.
There is a ticket booth within the Colosseum, however, you can avoid waiting in line twice, once for the ticket purchase and once for entry. A new ticket office has been opened across from the Colosseum and alongside the entrance to the Roman Forum. After purchasing ticket, make sure to enter the line for entrance at the Colosseum. Tickets can also be purchased online and and by telephone.- Getting There: Take the “B” Line Metro and exit at the Colosseo station. Take the “A” Line Metro and exit at the Manzoni station to take Tram 3, two stops south. Bus #s 51, 75, 85, 87 and 118 run to the Colosseum. Taxis and Uber will drop you across Via dei Fori Imperiali.