Roman Colosseum Facts

Roman Colosseum facts see the famous structure being inaugurated in A.D. 80. It was ordered to be built eight years earlier by Vespasian, though this former Emperor of the Roman Empire did not live to see the finished product. Instead, it was his son Titus who inaugurated the Colosseum after becoming Emperor himself. To celebrate the unveiling of the grand structure, shows were staged for weeks on end, and these shows often saw man fighting beast.

The original name of the Roman Colosseum was the Amphitheatrum Flavium, or the Flavian Amphitheater, as it is in English. An immense structure, it could accommodate approximately 50,000-60,000 spectators, and some accounts claim that it was filled with water on occasion so that things such as mock naval battles could be performed. Other spectacles that were held inside included animal hunts, gladiator battles, and executions. In the early medieval era, the Colosseum ceased to be used for entertainment. This era began around the year 500 A.D. Afterwards, the it hosted workshops, served as a fortress, and had other roles. Unfortunately, one of these other roles was that of a quarry.

Regardless of the fact that the Roman Colosseum lies in a largely ruined state, it is still an impressive monument. Many tourists put it at the top of their list of things to see in Italy, and few would argue that it isn’t the main symbol of Rome. The structure’s popularity is made evident by the fact that it receives millions of visitors on an annual basis. It has also served as the backdrop for major concerts. These concerts have seen such artists as Ray Charles, Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Billy Joel headlining. Guided tours of the Colosseum can be arranged for those who are visiting on a more casual basis, and they are certainly recommended.