The Colosseum, a towering testament to ancient Rome’s architectural prowess and engineering ingenuity, stands today as one of the few relatively intact structures from that bygone era. This iconic landmark is not only a captivating historical site but also a major driver of tourism revenue for Italy. In 2018 alone, the Colosseum, along with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, generated over €53.8 million, making it the most popular tourist attraction in Italy.
A Monument’s Transformation
The Colosseum, once a bustling hub of entertainment, fell into a state of serious disrepair after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. In the 12th century, the Frangipane and Annibaldi families repurposed the arena, using it as a fortress. The 15th century saw a further decline, with Pope Alexander VI allowing the Colosseum to be used as a quarry. After over a millennium of neglect, state-funded restoration efforts commenced in the 1990s, breathing new life into this ancient wonder.
A Vision of Imperial Grandeur
The Colosseum’s construction was a strategic move by the Roman Emperor Vespasian, aimed at revitalizing Rome following the chaotic year of the four emperors in 69 CE. Like other amphitheaters of its time, Vespasian intended the Colosseum to be a center for entertainment, hosting spectacular events like gladiator fights, animal hunts, and even simulated naval battles.
From Plunder to Construction
Construction of the Colosseum began under Emperor Vespasian between 70 and 72 CE, with its completion and dedication in 80 CE under his son and successor, Titus. The Colosseum’s fourth story was added by Emperor Domitian in 82 CE. It is important to note that the arena was funded by the spoils of war, specifically, the plunder from Titus’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 CE, and built by enslaved Jews from Judea.
A Monument of Immense Scale
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an elliptical structure made of stone, concrete, and tuff, standing four stories tall at its highest point. Measuring an impressive 620 by 513 feet, it had the capacity to accommodate as many as 50,000 spectators. Gladiatorial combat was one of the most famous events held within its walls.
A Symbol of Imperial Power
The Colosseum’s construction was not merely practical but also symbolic. Located just east of the Palatine Hill, on the site of Nero’s former Golden House, it replaced the artificial lake that was the centerpiece of that palace complex. This decision held significant meaning, as Vespasian, who rose to power from humble beginnings, chose to replace the tyrannical emperor’s private lake with a public amphitheater that could accommodate tens of thousands of Romans.
Engineering Marvels
The Colosseum is a freestanding structure, unlike earlier amphitheaters, which were often dug into hillsides for additional support. Its construction employed a complex system of barrel vaults and groin vaults, spanning an impressive 620 by 513 feet. The lower three stories are adorned with arcades framed by engaged columns in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders, a design that would influence later Renaissance architecture. The primary structure and facade are made of travertine, while volcanic tufa forms the secondary walls, and concrete comprises the inner bowl and the arcade vaults.
A Spectacle for the Masses
The Colosseum’s vast size accommodated some 50,000 spectators, who were protected from the sun by a massive retractable awning known as a velarium. Hundreds of Roman sailors were responsible for manipulating the rigging that extended and retracted this awning, which was supported by masts extending from the Colosseum’s top story. The Colosseum witnessed thousands of hand-to-hand gladiatorial combats, contests between men and animals, and even large-scale mock naval engagements. While the arena is often associated with the martyrdom of early Christians, its involvement in these events is not definitively confirmed.
A Legacy of Decline and Renewal
In the Middle Ages, the Colosseum transitioned from an arena to a church, then to a fortress under the control of prominent Roman families, the Frangipane and the Annibaldi. Over time, the Colosseum suffered from the effects of lightning, earthquakes, vandalism, and pollution, leading to the loss of its marble seats and decorative materials. For over a millennium, the site was treated little more than a quarry. Preservation efforts began in earnest in the 19th century, notably led by Pius VIII, and a major restoration project was undertaken in the 1990s. Today, the Colosseum stands as one of Rome’s most prominent tourist attractions, welcoming close to seven million visitors annually. Regularly changing exhibitions focusing on ancient Roman culture further enrich the visitor experience.
A Lasting Legacy
The Colosseum, with its enduring presence, continues to captivate and inspire visitors from around the world. Its story, spanning centuries of grandeur, decline, and restoration, is a testament to Rome’s rich history and the enduring power of human ingenuity. It remains a symbol of Rome’s past, a testament to its architectural brilliance, and a reminder of the ever-changing nature of human civilization.
