The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most iconic and popular tourist destinations in the world. It’s likely on many a bucket list to visit this grand amphitheater, the largest ancient amphitheater on the globe and the largest amphitheater still standing, despite its age. This ages-old structure has held its place in the center of Rome for nearly 2000 years and stands as a guidepost to ancient Rome and testament to the durability of ancient Roman architecture.

In The Beginning

Easily one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Colosseum, upon its 80 AD completion, was known as the Flavian Amphitheater, named for the dynasty Flavia, who commissioned the structure. The Colosseum stands on what was once the grounds of the exceedingly extravagant Emperor Nero’s Domus Aurea, or Golden House, one of the most opulent palaces in first century Rome.

This sturdy structure is constructed of travertine limestone, volcanic rock (called tuff) and brick- faced concrete. Throughout its much-storied history Rome’s Colosseum has held as many as 80,000 spectators for its various, and sometimes savage, entertaining events. The amphitheater stood as a venue for gladiator contests, animal hunts and executions as well as battle reenactments, complete with naval ships, and dramatic presentations based on Roman mythology.

The first events to be held in the colossal stadium were gladiatorial games which ran for 100 days straight. These games continued annually until the 5th century in similar fashion to the early Olympic games held  in Greece.

A Venue for All

After it ceased its reign as entertainment venue the Colosseum lent itself to housing, a fortress, a religious enclave, various workshops and instructional gatherings, a quarry and a Christian shrine. In most recent times, along with being a huge tourist attraction, the structure is front and center with the Catholic church’s Good Friday services as the Pope leads a torch lit procession for the Stations of The Cross (The Way of The Cross).

A True Wonder to Behold

Time has taken a toll on the Colosseum by way of fires and earthquakes and vandals have attempted to decimate the structure over the millennia but strong and beautiful, the Colosseum still stands as an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome and is listed among the New 7 Wonders of The World. And a wonder she is to behold!

An Ancient Standard Bearer

Some might argue that the Colosseum was way ahead of its time. It’s true. The ancient structure could be said to serve as a prototype for modern day arenas and venues across the globe. In addition to the vast seating from which all could see the main event, the Colosseum also had concessions, water stations and entry/exit to various sections.

As for size, Rome’s famous amphitheater is purported to fit an entire soccer pitch (field on which the sport is played) inside. A soccer pitch is roughly the same size as our American football fields, if not a bit wider. This famous theater in the round is about 12 stories high. That’s a lot of space!

Beneath the structure were underground passages that led to trap doors into the arena. The underground area is where the various animals, gladiators and prisoners were kept as they awaited their fate above.

See the Colosseum for Yourself

If you would like to visit the Colosseum today (and who wouldn’t, given the chance?) be sure to check with the website to confirm it will be open. Schedules change with the season and certain holidays. Tickets are available for advance purchase online as well. We highly recommend advance purchase of tickets.

Guided tours are available of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and are also recommended. The amount of sheer history you’ll learn surrounding the Colosseum is well worth the tour. And be sure to give yourself a moment to take in the amazing and often-surreal presence of this epoch emblem of ancient Rome.