The Colosseum, standing tall as one of the few relatively untouched structures from the Roman Empire, is a powerful testament to ancient Rome’s architectural and engineering brilliance. Not only is it a symbol of a bygone era, but it’s also a major source of income for the Italian government. In 2018 alone, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill together attracted millions of visitors and generated over $63.3 million (€53.8 million) in revenue, making it Italy’s top tourist attraction.
This iconic monument, however, hasn’t always enjoyed such popularity. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Colosseum fell into a state of severe neglect. Throughout the 12th century, the Frangipane and Annibaldi families, powerful families of the time, transformed the arena into their fortress, utilizing it for their own purposes. Fast forward to the late 15th century, and Pope Alexander VI granted permission for the Colosseum to be used as a quarry. This period of disregard lasted over a thousand years until state-funded restoration efforts commenced in the 1990s.
From Gladiator Battles to Quarry: A Colosseum Timeline
The Colosseum’s construction began under the reign of Emperor Vespasian between 70 and 72 CE, a period of rebuilding for Rome following the tumultuous “Year of the Four Emperors” in 69 CE. Vespasian, much like other emperors before him, envisioned the Colosseum as a grand entertainment venue. Its purpose was to provide Romans with a place for thrilling spectacles, including gladiatorial combat, animal hunts, and even mock naval battles.
The completed structure was dedicated in 80 CE by Vespasian’s son and successor, Titus, marking a significant milestone. The final addition to the Colosseum, its fourth story, was built under the rule of Emperor Domitian in 82 CE. It is important to note that the funding for this magnificent structure came from the spoils of war, specifically the plunder obtained from Titus’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 CE. Sadly, the construction of the Colosseum also involved the use of enslaved Jewish people from Judea.
A Monument of Stone and Concrete: The Colosseum’s Design
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, is an awe-inspiring elliptical structure built of stone, concrete, and tuff, reaching four stories high at its peak. This impressive structure, measuring a massive 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters), could hold up to 50,000 spectators. The Colosseum was famously utilized for gladiatorial combat, a testament to the Roman Empire’s fascination with these violent spectacles.
The Colosseum stands as a symbol of Roman engineering ingenuity. Unlike earlier amphitheaters, which often utilized hillsides for support, the Colosseum stands independently, constructed entirely from stone and concrete. This remarkable structure incorporates a complex system of barrel vaults and groin vaults, contributing to its impressive size and stability. The three lower stories of the Colosseum are adorned with arcades framed by engaged columns in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders, a design that influenced the Renaissance architectural movement.
A Stage for Spectacles: Life Within the Colosseum’s Walls
The Colosseum’s design was not only aesthetically impressive but also meticulously crafted to provide optimal comfort for its massive audience. The 50,000 spectators were protected from the sun by a massive retractable awning, or velarium. This intricate system relied on supporting masts extending from the Colosseum’s top story and required a team of hundreds of Roman sailors to manage its operation.
The Colosseum was the backdrop for countless spectacular events that captivated Roman audiences. Gladiators clashed in hand-to-hand combat, men and animals fought for survival, and mock naval battles were staged. However, the Colosseum’s connection to the martyrdom of early Christians remains uncertain.
From Glory to Neglect: The Colosseum’s Changing Fortunes
In the tumultuous years following the Roman Empire’s decline, the Colosseum experienced a dramatic change in fortune. It was utilized as a church and later as a fortress by prominent Roman families like the Frangipane and Annibaldi. Sadly, the Colosseum suffered significant damage from lightning strikes, earthquakes, vandalism, and pollution. Over time, the marble seats and decorative materials disappeared, and the site was left to decay, becoming little more than a quarry for over a thousand years.
In the 19th century, efforts began to preserve this historical monument. Pius VIII led a notable preservation initiative, and a comprehensive restoration project was undertaken in the 1990s. Today, the Colosseum continues to be one of Rome’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually. The Colosseum hosts rotating exhibitions that shed light on the culture of ancient Rome, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of this remarkable era.
Conclusion
The Colosseum stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire. From its grand beginnings as a stage for gladiatorial spectacles to its neglect and subsequent restoration, the Colosseum has witnessed centuries of change. Today, this iconic monument is a beloved tourist destination and a symbol of Rome’s rich history and culture. Its continued preservation ensures that generations to come will be able to marvel at the architectural genius and spectacle that once defined the heart of the Roman Empire.
