History of the Colosseum

The Colosseum: A Wonder That Amazes Millions Every Year

According to estimates from the Ministry of Culture, the Colosseum is Italy’s most visited attraction, with around 6 million visitors annually.

When Was the Colosseum Built?

The largest amphitheater in the world was constructed between 72 and 80 AD, almost 2,000 years ago. At the time, it was called Amphitheatrum Novum or Amphitheatrum Flavium.

While many may associate the Colosseum with Asterix and Obelix, Julius Caesar never actually set foot in it. He died in 44 BC, long before the amphitheater was built.

The Colosseum was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian to surpass all previous amphitheaters, showcasing the power and grandeur of the new Flavian rulers—hence the original name Amphitheatrum Flavium.

It was inaugurated in 80 AD under Vespasian’s son and successor, Titus, who added a fourth level to the original three-story design. The opening is said to have been marked by 100 days of games, including gladiator fights, animal hunts, and possibly even staged naval battles, though historians remain uncertain about the latter.

The Development of the Hypogeum

Under Emperor Domitian, Titus’s successor, the Colosseum’s underground structure—the Hypogeum—was remodeled. This system of rooms, passageways, and supply shafts, parts of which are still visible today, supported advanced stage technology. Pulleys, winches, elevators, and ramps allowed rapid changes to the arena’s stage.

The underground also housed cells for prisoners, a tunnel to the gladiator barracks, and cages for wild animals.

450 Years of Performances

For nearly 450 years, the Colosseum hosted gladiator fights, animal hunts, and theatrical performances.

During the Roman Republic (up to 27 BC), the strategy of bread and circuses was popular—offering affordable food and entertainment to win over the people and distract them from other issues.

This approach continued during the imperial period. Entrance to the Colosseum was free for all Roman citizens. While modern standards suggest a capacity of around 50,000 spectators, it likely held up to 80,000 during its active use.

The Colosseum featured 80 entrances, circular corridors, and numerous staircases, ensuring that spectators could find and leave their seats quickly. Four entrances were reserved for the VIPs of the time: senators, priests, and, of course, the emperor.

The End of Gladiator Fights

Gladiator fights likely ended around 420 AD, though animal hunts continued, with records showing them taking place until 523 AD. Surprisingly, the Christianization of the Roman Empire was not the reason for the cessation of games.

Instead, the decline was due to Rome’s shrinking population in the 5th and 6th centuries, which made such events financially unviable.

The Colosseum suffered damage during Emperor Justinian’s reconquest wars. With no rulers or senate in Rome afterward, the Colosseum lost its purpose entirely.

The Colosseum as a Stone Quarry

In the centuries that followed, the Colosseum had no defined function. From the 6th or 7th century, parts of it were repurposed as housing. It also served as a stone quarry for various buildings in Rome.

The Colosseum Museum

While the Colosseum itself is essentially an open-air museum, the second floor houses an official museum. Here, visitors can delve into the Colosseum’s architecture and history in detail.

Tours and Guided Visits

Choose from standard tours with an audio guide or exclusive guided tours to fully experience the Colosseum in Rome.

Tickets:
Plan your visit and book your tickets to avoid missing this iconic landmark!