The Colosseum stands as a testament to the impressive architectural and engineering skills of ancient Rome. It is a captivating structure that attracts millions of visitors each year. The Colosseum, alongside the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, is a major revenue generator for Italy, bringing in over $63.3 million (€53.8 million) in 2018. This impressive figure makes it the top tourist attraction in the entire country!
This incredible monument, however, hasn’t always been in its present state. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Colosseum fell into disrepair. It was even used as a fortress by powerful families in the 12th century. Imagine, gladiators once fought in this very space, and centuries later, families used it as a base of operations.
A Century of Change: The Colosseum’s Purpose
The Colosseum was built as part of an ambitious project to revitalize Rome after a tumultuous period. Emperor Vespasian, with his grand vision, intended the Colosseum to be an entertainment hub for the Roman people. The arena hosted captivating spectacles, including gladiatorial contests, thrilling hunts with wild animals, and even mock naval battles! These events must have been incredible to watch.
The construction of the Colosseum started under the reign of Emperor Vespasian, between the years 70 and 72 CE. His son and successor, Titus, completed the structure in 80 CE, and it was dedicated with a magnificent 100-day celebration. Domitian, Titus’s brother, added the fourth story in 82 CE. Interestingly, the Colosseum was built using the spoils from Titus’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 CE, and enslaved Jewish people were involved in its construction.
An Architectural Masterpiece: The Colosseum’s Design
The Colosseum is an elliptical amphitheater, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre. This remarkable structure is composed of stone, concrete, and a volcanic rock called tuff. It stands tall at four stories, reaching an impressive height. Its dimensions are equally grand: 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters). With a capacity of 50,000 spectators, it could hold a vast crowd, making it one of the largest entertainment venues in the ancient world.
Imagine the roar of the crowd as gladiators clashed in the arena! This massive structure stands as a testament to Roman architecture, with its intricate design and masterful use of materials.
A Brief History of the Colosseum
The Colosseum’s construction began during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, between 70 and 72 CE. The amphitheater stands on the site of Nero’s Golden House, where a vast artificial lake once stood. This decision to replace the private lake with a public arena highlights Vespasian’s commitment to the Roman people.
The Colosseum is a remarkable structure, unlike earlier amphitheaters. It was constructed as a freestanding building, without the support of hillsides. The impressive structure was supported by a complex system of vaults, measuring an impressive 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters). The three lower tiers of the arena boast arcades framed by columns, showcasing the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian architectural orders. This arrangement of columns became a significant element in Renaissance architecture. The Colosseum’s primary structure and facade are made of travertine, while volcanic tufa forms its secondary walls. Concrete was used for the inner bowl and arcade vaults.
A Spectacle for the Masses: The Colosseum’s Events
The Colosseum held a massive capacity of 50,000 spectators, who were protected from the sun by a retractable awning called a velarium. This awning was a marvel of engineering, supported by masts extending from the Colosseum’s upper story. Roman sailors skillfully manipulated the rigging to extend and retract the velarium, shielding the spectators from the elements.
The Colosseum served as a stage for gladiatorial combats, animal hunts, and even mock naval battles. It is believed that the arena was used for some of the early Christian martyrs, though there is no conclusive evidence.
From Glory to Neglect: The Colosseum’s Revival
During the Middle Ages, the Colosseum served as a church and a fortress for powerful families. It suffered significant damage from lightning, earthquakes, vandalism, and pollution. The once-glorious marble seats and decorative materials were stripped away, leaving the Colosseum as little more than a quarry for over 1,000 years.
The Colosseum’s preservation efforts began in the 19th century, with notable contributions from Pope Pius VIII. In the 1990s, a major restoration project revitalized the ancient amphitheater. Today, the Colosseum stands as one of Rome’s most prominent tourist attractions, welcoming almost seven million visitors annually. It continues to captivate the world with its grandeur, showcasing the history and culture of ancient Rome through captivating exhibitions.