Rome Coliseum

The Coliseum, originally the Flavian Amphitheatre (Colosseo Italian), is a huge elliptical amphitheater in the center of the city of Rome between the Esquilino and Cælius, the largest ever built in the Roman Empire. It is one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and engineering.

Its construction, just east of the Roman Forum, began between 70 and 72 AD. AD under the emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD under Titus. Other modifications were made during the reign of Domitian (81-96) 1. The name derives from the Flavian amphitheater last name (people Flavia) of the two emperors Vespasian and Titus.

For between 50,000 and 75,000 spectateurs2, the Colosseum was used for hunting wild animals, gladiator fights and public spectacles. It remained in use for nearly 500 years, the latest games lasting until the sixth century. Besides the traditional gladiatorial games, many other shows were organized, such as animal hunts, public executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Classical mythology. For the opening of the Colosseum, in 80 AD. AD, Titus gives Naumachiedans the Colosseum turned into pond reconstructing the naval battle of Corinth against Corcyra. The building ceased to be used during the Middle Ages. It was later reused for various uses such as houses, craft workshops, the seat of a religious order, a fortress, a quarry and a Christian Catholic shrine.

The Coliseum is currently in a state of ruin, because of the damage caused by earthquakes and recovery of stones, but he continues to give the measure of the former power of Imperial Rome. Today it is one of the symbols of modern Rome, one of its most popular tourist attractions and still has close ties with the Roman Catholic Church: every Good Friday the Pope leads a torchlit procession on Stations of the Cross leading to the amphitheater. The Colosseum is depicted on the Italian coin 5 euro cents.