The Colosseum, one of the few undamaged structures from the Roman Empire, stands as a testament to ancient Rome’s remarkable architectural and engineering skills. Not only a historic marvel, it is also a key contributor to Italy’s tourism income. In 2018, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill collectively generated over $63.3 million (€53.8 million), making it the most popular tourist attraction in Italy.
The Colosseum’s history is a tale of grandeur, neglect, and revival. After the decline of the Western Roman Empire, the Colosseum fell into disrepair. In the 12th century, the Frangipane and Annibaldi families transformed the arena into a fortress. The 15th century saw the Colosseum being used as a quarry under Pope Alexander VI’s permission. After a millennium of neglect, state-funded restoration projects were initiated in the 1990s.
A Symbol of Imperial Power and Public Entertainment
The Colosseum was built as part of a grand plan to revive Rome after the tumultuous year of the four emperors in 69 CE. Emperor Vespasian, like other emperors before him, intended the Colosseum to be a center for entertainment, showcasing gladiator battles, animal hunts, and even mock naval battles.
Construction and Dedication: A Labor of Love and War
The construction of the Colosseum started under Emperor Vespasian between 70 and 72 CE. The completed structure, dedicated in 80 CE by Titus, Vespasian’s son and successor, became a monument to their rule. The Colosseum’s fourth story was added by Emperor Domitian in 82 CE. Significantly, the arena was funded by the spoils from Titus’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 CE, and its construction was carried out by enslaved Jews from Judea.
A Monument to Flavian Glory: Architecture and Engineering
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, is an elliptical structure built from stone, concrete, and tuff, standing four stories high. It measures a staggering 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters) and had the capacity to hold up to 50,000 spectators. The Colosseum was renowned for its gladiatorial combat.
A Grand Arena for Entertainment: The Colosseum’s Design and Function
The Colosseum’s location, east of the Palatine Hill on the grounds of Nero’s Golden House, was a deliberate choice. The artificial lake, once the centerpiece of Nero’s palace complex, was drained, making way for the Colosseum. This decision was both symbolic and practical, as Vespasian, whose rise to power was not without challenges, chose to replace Nero’s extravagant private lake with a public amphitheater capable of accommodating tens of thousands of Romans.
The Colosseum’s unique construction, unlike earlier amphitheaters, distinguished it from the rest. Built as a freestanding structure of stone and concrete, it employed complex systems of barrel and groin vaults. Three of the arena’s stories are surrounded by arcades framed by engaged columns in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders. This ascending arrangement of columns became a cornerstone of Renaissance architectural principles. Travertine made up the primary structure and facade, while volcanic tufa comprised the secondary walls, and the inner bowl and arcade vaults were constructed of concrete.
The Colosseum’s design facilitated the enjoyment of the spectacles it housed. The amphitheater could seat up to 50,000 spectators who were protected from the sun by a massive retractable awning, or velarium. Hundreds of Roman sailors were tasked with managing the rigging that extended and retracted the velarium. The Colosseum witnessed countless gladiatorial battles, man-versus-animal contests, and spectacular naval engagements. However, the authenticity of accounts claiming the martyrdom of early Christians in the arena remains uncertain.
Through the Ages: The Colosseum’s Decline and Restoration
During the medieval period, the Colosseum served various purposes, transforming from a church to a fortress for powerful Roman families like the Frangipane and Annibaldi. It suffered damage from lightning strikes, earthquakes, vandalism, and pollution. Valuable marble seats and decorative materials disappeared, leaving the Colosseum abandoned for over a thousand years.
The preservation of the Colosseum began in earnest during the 19th century with significant contributions from Pius VIII. In the 1990s, a comprehensive restoration project was undertaken. The Colosseum has remained one of Rome’s top tourist attractions, receiving nearly seven million visitors each year. The Colosseum continues to host regular changing exhibitions, providing insights into ancient Roman culture.
The Colosseum’s legacy stretches far beyond its impressive architecture and grandeur. It is a tangible link to Rome’s glorious past, a reminder of the city’s triumphs and resilience, and a symbol of its enduring power to captivate and inspire generations.
