The Colosseum, a magnificent symbol of ancient Rome’s architectural brilliance, stands today as one of the few largely intact structures from the Roman Empire. This impressive amphitheater, a testament to the Romans’ engineering prowess, not only draws tourists from all over the world but also contributes significantly to Italy’s economy. In 2018 alone, the Colosseum, along with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, generated over $63.3 million (€53.8 million), making it Italy’s top tourist attraction.
The Colosseum’s journey through time has been marked by both glory and neglect. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Colosseum fell into disrepair, becoming a fortress for noble families like the Frangipane and Annibaldi during the 12th century. Sadly, in the late 15th century, Pope Alexander VI allowed the Colosseum to be used as a quarry, stripping it of its valuable materials. It wasn’t until the 1990s that state-funded restoration efforts began to revive this iconic monument after over a millennium of neglect.
The Colosseum’s construction, initiated under Emperor Vespasian between 70 and 72 CE, reflects a desire to revitalize Rome after a period of political upheaval. Vespasian, following in the footsteps of other Roman emperors, intended the Colosseum to be a hub of entertainment, hosting thrilling gladiator fights, thrilling animal hunts, and even elaborate mock naval battles.
The Colosseum’s completion, however, came with a dark twist. Dedicated in 80 CE by Titus, Vespasian’s son and successor, the Colosseum’s construction was funded by the spoils from Titus’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 CE. The tragic reality is that many of the laborers who built this grand structure were enslaved Jews from Judaea.
A Masterpiece of Engineering
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an elliptical marvel crafted from stone, concrete, and tuff. This majestic structure, towering four stories high, spans a massive 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters) and could accommodate up to 50,000 spectators. Its primary use, as with other amphitheaters, was for gladiatorial combat, a spectacle that captivated the Roman populace.
The Colosseum’s construction was a feat of engineering and a symbol of Roman ambition. Located east of the Palatine Hill, the Colosseum was built on the site of Nero’s Golden House, draining the artificial lake that served as its centerpiece. This deliberate choice symbolized Vespasian’s rejection of Nero’s extravagance and his commitment to creating a public space for the Roman people.
The Colosseum’s design showcases Roman architectural innovation. Unlike earlier amphitheaters carved into hillsides, the Colosseum is a freestanding structure, incorporating a sophisticated system of barrel vaults and groin vaults. Its three lower stories feature arcades adorned with engaged columns in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders, a design that became influential in the Renaissance. Travertine stone forms the main structure and facade, while volcanic tufa is used for the secondary walls, and concrete for the inner bowl and arcade vaults.
A Venue for Spectacle and Tragedy
The Colosseum provided shelter for its massive audience through a retractable awning known as a velarium. Supported by masts extending from the top story, this massive awning was manipulated by hundreds of Roman sailors, providing shade from the sun during the often-lengthy events.
The Colosseum witnessed countless spectacles of both grandeur and brutality. Gladiators clashed in hand-to-hand combat, men battled beasts, and mock naval battles took place, captivating the audience. The Colosseum also played a role in the persecution of early Christians, though it’s unclear whether it was the actual site of their martyrdom.
A Legacy of Renewal and Resilience
The Colosseum’s fate after the fall of the Roman Empire was one of neglect and repurposing. It was used as a church, then as a fortress for powerful Roman families. The Colosseum suffered damage from lightning, earthquakes, vandalism, and pollution, losing its marble seats and decorative materials. Over a thousand years of exploitation left the once-magnificent structure in ruins.
However, the Colosseum’s story isn’t one of decline alone. Restoration efforts began in earnest in the 19th century, with notable contributions from Pope Pius VIII. The 1990s saw a major restoration project, breathing life back into this iconic landmark. Today, the Colosseum stands as one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors annually. Regular exhibitions showcasing the culture of ancient Rome further enhance its appeal, ensuring that its legacy continues to captivate the world.
The Colosseum, a monument to both Roman grandeur and resilience, stands as a testament to the enduring power of human ingenuity and the cyclical nature of history. From its glorious beginnings as a symbol of Roman power to its decline and eventual revival, the Colosseum’s story is one of triumph, tragedy, and ultimately, enduring relevance.
