Colosseum

Colosseum – the most important information

The Colosseum, also called Flavian Amphitheater, is a famous giant amphitheater in the center of the city of Rome. It is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, and the largest standing amphitheater in the world.

History of Colosseum

The construction of the amphitheater began under the empire of Vespasian in 72 and was completed in 80 AD under Titus, Vespasian’s heir. It was built on the floor of a low valley between the Caelian, Esquiline and Palatine Hills. The ceremony for the dedication of the structure included 100 days of games. In medieval times, the amphitheater was used as a church, and then as a fortress. During the years, the Colosseum was damaged by lightning and earthquakes, vandalism and pollution. Preservation began in the 19th century. Today it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Rome, and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

What to see at the Colosseum?

Some of the things you have to see while visiting the Colosseum are:

Outer Colosseum Wall – parts of the wall were destroyed over time, but it stands 57 meters tall and it was constructed using travertine marble. The south side of the outer wall collapsed in a massive earthquake in 1349.
The Colosseum Arena Floor – access to this area is limited to select tours only. You will be able to pass through the Gladiator’s Gate and go onto the arena floor.
The Colosseum Underground – go below the arena floor, in the dark tunnels, where gladiators and wild animals were encaged before the battles. They would come up to the arena floor via a trap door.
The Emperor’s Seat – the private box of the Emperor was located right in the middle of the stadium on the ground level, on both sides of the arena. You can easily spot the Emperor’s box because it is marked with a crucifix.

Tickets and opening hours for the Colosseum

Tickets – the price for adults is 16 Euros, for children and adolescents under 18 years it’s free, and for adolescents aged from 18 to 25 from EU the ticket is 2 Euros. Book your ticket in advance.
Opening hours – the Colosseum is open daily between 10:30 am to 7:15 pm, with final admission at 6:15 pm.

How to get to the Colosseum?

You can get to the Colosseum using the public transportation. Here are your options:

Metro – line B, stop Colosseo.
Bus – lines 75, 81, 673, 175, 204, stop Celio Vibenna or Colosseo.
Tram – you can use Tram #3.

What should you know before visiting the Colosseum?

It’s probably best to hire a guide who can help you move through the grounds in the best way possible. There are also specialized tours during the evenings.
Avoid going there during the summer because of the crowds. If you do go during summer, go early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll walk a lot.

Colosseum trivia

The Colosseum measures 189 by 156 meters.
There are columns in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders.
The main structural framework and facade are made from travertine, while the secondary walls are from volcanic tufa, and the inner bowl and the arcade vaults are made from concrete.
The Colosseum could seat around 50,000 spectators.
There were thousands of hand-to-hand combats between gladiators, of contests between men and animals, and of many larger combats at the Colosseum.