The Colosseum, a towering testament to ancient Rome’s architectural brilliance and engineering prowess, stands as one of the few mostly intact structures from the Roman Empire. It’s not just a historical landmark, but also a significant contributor to Italy’s tourism revenue. In 2018, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill together generated more than $63.3 million (€53.8 million), making it Italy’s most lucrative tourist attraction.
A History of Transformation
The Colosseum’s journey has been marked by both grandeur and neglect. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, it fell into serious disrepair. The Frangipane and Annibaldi families repurposed the arena as their fortress during the 12th century. The late 15th century saw Pope Alexander VI allow the Colosseum to be used as a quarry. After over a thousand years of neglect, state-funded restoration efforts finally began in the 1990s.
A Monument of Imperial Might
The Colosseum’s construction was part of Emperor Vespasian’s grand plan to revitalize Rome following the chaotic year of the four emperors in 69 CE. Like other amphitheatres, Vespasian envisioned the Colosseum as an entertainment venue hosting gladiator fights, animal hunts, and even mock naval battles.
A Structure of Power and Prestige
Construction of the Colosseum commenced under Emperor Vespasian between 70 and 72 CE. The finished structure was dedicated in 80 CE by Titus, Vespasian’s son and successor. The Colosseum’s fourth story was added by Emperor Domitian in 82 CE. The arena was financed with plunder from Titus’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 CE and built using enslaved Jews from Judaea.
A Colossal Masterpiece of Architecture
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an elliptical structure made of stone, concrete, and tuff. It rises four stories high, measuring an impressive 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters), and could accommodate as many as 50,000 spectators. It was most famous for hosting gladiatorial combat.
A Symbol of Imperial Power
The Colosseum was erected just east of the Palatine Hill on the grounds of Nero’s Golden House. The artificial lake that was the centerpiece of Nero’s palace was drained, and the Colosseum was built in its place – a decision that was as much symbolic as it was practical. Vespasian, whose rise to power was far from opulent, chose to replace the tyrant’s private lake with a public amphitheater that could accommodate tens of thousands of Romans.
A Marvel of Roman Engineering
The Colosseum’s dedication in 80 CE by Titus was celebrated with 100 days of games. Domitian completed the uppermost story in 82 CE. Unlike earlier amphitheatres, which were typically built into hillsides for support, the Colosseum stands as a freestanding structure of stone and concrete. It utilizes a complex system of barrel vaults and groin vaults. The exterior is adorned with arcades framed by engaged columns in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders. This rising arrangement of columns inspired the Renaissance codification known as the assemblage of orders. The Colosseum’s primary structure and facade are made of travertine, secondary walls of volcanic tufa, and the inner bowl and arcade vaults of concrete.
A Theatre of Blood and Spectacle
The Colosseum could seat 50,000 spectators, who were protected from the sun by a massive retractable velarium (awning). Supporting masts extended from corbels built into the Colosseum’s top story. Hundreds of Roman sailors were required to operate the rigging that extended and retracted the velarium. The Colosseum was the stage for countless gladiator battles, contests between men and animals, and mock naval engagements. However, the arena’s role in the martyrdom of early Christians remains uncertain.
From Glory to Neglect and Revival
During the Middle Ages, the Colosseum was used as a church, then as a fortress by the Frangipane and Annibaldi families. It suffered damage from lightning, earthquakes, vandalism, and pollution. All the marble seats and decorative materials disappeared, as the site was treated as a quarry for over a thousand years. Preservation efforts began in the 19th century under Pius VIII, and a major restoration project was undertaken in the 1990s.
A Timeless Symbol
The Colosseum continues to be one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions, attracting nearly seven million visitors annually. Exhibitions showcasing ancient Roman culture are regularly held within its walls. The Colosseum remains a powerful symbol of the grandeur and resilience of the Roman Empire, offering a glimpse into the past and a reminder of the enduring legacy of Rome.