Colosseum

Rome, Italy

The Colosseum is an oval amphitheatre in the centre of the city of Rome, Italy. Built of concrete and sand, it is the largest amphitheatre ever built and probably the most well-known landmark of Rome. Construction began under the emperor Vespasian in AD 72, and was completed in AD 80 under his successor and heir Titus. Further modifications were made during the reign of Domitian (81-96).

The Colosseum could hold, it is estimated, between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators, having an average audience of some 65,000; it was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles such as mock sea battles, animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Classical mythology. The building ceased to be used for entertainment in the early medieval era. It was later reused for such purposes as housing, workshops, quarters for a religious order, a fortress, a quarry, and a Christian shrine.

Although partially ruined because of damage caused by earthquakes and stone-robbers, the Colosseum is still an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome. It is one of Rome's most popular tourist attractions and also has links to the Roman Catholic Church, as each Good Friday the Pope leads a torchlit 'Way of the Cross' procession that starts in the area around the Colosseum.

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Founded: 72-80 AD
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Italy

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Tim Cummings (2 years ago)
Fantastic ancient history! I live on Maui, Hawaii, and got the chance to tour Europe with my daughter for 10 days in 2019. Being from a Navy family I had the good fortune to live in Spain for 3 years when my Dad was stationed in Rota in the 60s. I told my daughter that while Hawaii and the Mainland US have history she was going to see places and monuments that date over 2,000 years. Trip didn't disappoint! My daughter was amazed.
Massarat Shaikh (2 years ago)
The Colosseum is extremely beautiful. Make sure to read some history behind it before your visit. I would recommend to take a guided tour. We were lucky to have an English speaking Italian guide, who was incredible. Also try to visit the Palatine hill. Our visit took us back in time :) and we left with great memories. Also make sure to take a walk around the area. It's a beautiful walk with many surprises.
Illiana Salser (2 years ago)
Amazing! Lines are long but worth the wait. This place will make you feel small. Highly recommend booking an experienced tour guide, preferably someone who is familiar with Bible based tours. The history of this place as well as the grandeur is pretty cool. Go early so the lines aren’t too long and bring a hat and water, you will be happy you did.
Ty Williams (2 years ago)
If you're going to go, plan ahead. Go early morning before the crowds or evening. We bought tickets ahead of time however, had to change to 1:45pm. The lines we long...maybe a 45 minutes wait to get in. I highly suggest you get the "skip the line" tickets, if that's within your budget. I had two kids in tow, a 9 and 5 y/o and it was HOT, they were done by the time we got inside, particularly the 5 y/o. I am happy I got the opportunity to stand on a piece of Roman history
Thomas Buelow (2 years ago)
Nice place, very cool. The kids will have fun. The outer rings are a lot cooler when it's hot outside. I didn't get a tour, just purchased tickets online. I paid extra to go to the ground floor. Worth it. Awesome place.
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