Standing as a testament to the architectural and engineering brilliance of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum remains one of the few mostly intact structures from that era. Its grandeur not only captivates visitors but also serves as a significant source of revenue for the Italian government. In 2018, the Colosseum, along with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, brought in over $63.3 million (€53.8 million), making it the highest-grossing tourist attraction in Italy.
The Colosseum’s journey has been one of both glory and neglect. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, it fell into disrepair, and during the 12th century, the Frangipane and Annibaldi families used it as a fortress. Later, in the late 15th century, Pope Alexander VI allowed it to be used as a quarry, a sad reflection of its former glory. However, after over a thousand years of neglect, state-funded restoration efforts began in the 1990s, breathing new life into this magnificent monument.
A Symbol of Power and Entertainment
The Colosseum’s construction began under the Roman emperor Vespasian between 70 and 72 CE, part of an imperial effort to revitalize Rome following the tumultuous year of the four emperors in 69 CE. Like other amphitheaters, the Colosseum was envisioned as a venue for entertainment, hosting thrilling gladiator fights, thrilling animal hunts, and even mock naval battles.
The construction of the Colosseum, completed in 80 CE by Titus, Vespasian’s son and successor, was financed by the spoils of war from Titus’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 CE. Sadly, the construction employed enslaved Jews from Judea, a dark chapter in the Colosseum’s history. The fourth story was later added in 82 CE by the emperor Domitian, further enhancing the grandeur of this remarkable structure.
An Architectural Masterpiece
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an elliptical structure built from stone, concrete, and tuff. This impressive edifice rises four stories tall, measuring 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters) and boasting a capacity of up to 50,000 spectators. This awe-inspiring structure was renowned for its gladiatorial combats.
Located east of the Palatine Hill, the Colosseum stands on the grounds of what was once Nero’s Golden House. The artificial lake that served as the centerpiece of this lavish palace was drained to make way for the Colosseum, a decision that was as symbolic as it was practical. Vespasian, whose journey to the throne was relatively humble, chose to replace the tyrannical emperor’s private lake with a public amphitheater that could host tens of thousands of Romans. It was a clear statement of his vision for a more inclusive and accessible empire.
A Glimpse into Ancient Roman Life
The Colosseum’s dedication in 80 CE by Titus was a grand spectacle, featuring 100 days of games. The upper story was added by Domitian in 82 CE. Unlike earlier amphitheaters, which were often built into hillsides for extra support, the Colosseum was a freestanding structure made of stone and concrete, employing a complex system of barrel and groin vaults. The three lower stories are encircled by arcades adorned with engaged columns in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders, showcasing the beauty and sophistication of Roman architecture. This arrangement of columns became a defining feature of the Renaissance, known as the assemblage of orders.
The Colosseum boasted a sophisticated system for protecting spectators from the sun, using a massive retractable awning called a velarium. Supporting masts were extended from corbels built into the top story, and hundreds of Roman sailors were tasked with managing the rigging that extended and retracted the velarium. The Colosseum was the stage for countless gladiatorial combats, animal hunts, and even mock naval battles. However, the historical evidence regarding the martyrdom of early Christians in the arena remains uncertain.
From Glory to Preservation
The Colosseum’s story took a turn during medieval times when it was used as a church and later as a fortress by prominent Roman families, the Frangipane and Annibaldi. Sadly, the Colosseum suffered damage from lightning, earthquakes, and vandalism. The marble seats and decorative materials were plundered, and for over a thousand years, it was treated as a quarry.
However, preservation efforts began in earnest in the 19th century, led by Pope Pius VIII. In the 1990s, a comprehensive restoration project was undertaken, breathing new life into this iconic monument. The Colosseum continues to be one of Rome’s major tourist attractions, drawing close to seven million visitors annually. Regularly changing exhibitions highlight the culture and history of ancient Rome, providing a fascinating window into the past for modern audiences.