The Colosseum, one of the few remarkably preserved structures from the Roman Empire, stands today as a testament to ancient Rome’s architectural and engineering genius. This awe-inspiring monument is not only a window into the past but also a major source of income for the Italian government. In 2018 alone, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill together drew in over $63.3 million (€53.8 million), making it Italy’s top tourist attraction.
The Colosseum, a symbol of Rome’s imperial might, has weathered the storms of time. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Colosseum fell into a state of disrepair. During the 12th century, the Frangipane and Annibaldi families converted the arena into their fortress. In the late 15th century, Pope Alexander VI allowed the Colosseum to be used as a quarry, stripping it of its valuable materials. After over a thousand years of neglect, state-funded restoration efforts began in the 1990s, breathing new life into this ancient wonder.
A Monument to Entertainment: The Colosseum’s Purpose
The Colosseum was built as part of a grand scheme to revitalize Rome following the turbulent year of the four emperors in 69 CE. Like other amphitheatres, the emperor Vespasian envisioned the Colosseum as a hub for entertainment, hosting gladiator fights, animal hunts, and even mock naval battles. The Colosseum was a place where the Roman people could gather to witness thrilling spectacles and celebrate their imperial power.
Building an Empire’s Entertainment Hub: The Colosseum’s Construction
Construction of the Colosseum commenced under the reign of 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 later added by Domitian in 82 CE. Notably, the arena’s construction was financed by the spoils of war from Titus’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 CE. It was built by enslaved Jews from Judaea, a grim reminder of the Roman Empire’s brutal expansion.
A Monument of Might: The Colosseum’s Structure
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is a breathtaking elliptical structure built by the Flavian emperors of the Roman Empire. Made of stone, concrete, and tuff, the Colosseum rises to four stories, measuring 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters). This colossal arena could accommodate up to 50,000 spectators, making it one of the largest and most impressive amphitheatres ever built. The Colosseum was renowned for its gladiatorial combats, a spectacle that captivated the Roman populace.
A Symbol of Power: The Colosseum’s Location
The Colosseum stands just east of the Palatine Hill, on the grounds of what was once Nero’s Golden House. The artificial lake that graced the center of this opulent palace was drained to make way for the Colosseum. This decision was as much symbolic as it was practical. Vespasian, who rose to power from humble beginnings, chose to replace the tyrannical emperor’s private lake with a public amphitheater that could host tens of thousands of Romans. By doing so, he asserted his authority and demonstrated his commitment to the Roman people.
A Masterpiece of Engineering: The Colosseum’s Construction and Design
The Colosseum was officially dedicated in 80 CE by Titus in a ceremony that included 100 days of games. Domitian later added the uppermost story in 82 CE. Unlike earlier amphitheatres, which were typically built into convenient hillsides for extra support, the Colosseum stands as a freestanding structure of stone and concrete, utilizing a complex system of barrel vaults and groin vaults. The Colosseum is a testament to Roman ingenuity and engineering prowess. Its three lower stories feature arcades framed by engaged columns in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders. This ascending arrangement of columns became the basis of the Renaissance codification known as the assemblage of orders, a tribute to the Colosseum’s enduring architectural influence. The main structural framework and facade are made of travertine, the secondary walls are volcanic tufa, and the inner bowl and arcade vaults are constructed of concrete.
A Spectacle for the Ages: The Colosseum’s Use and Entertainment
The Colosseum could seat approximately 50,000 spectators, who were shielded from the sun by a massive retractable velarium (awning). Supporting masts extended from corbels built into the Colosseum’s top, or attic, story. Hundreds of Roman sailors were required to manipulate the rigging that extended and retracted the velarium, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience for the vast crowds. The Colosseum was the scene of countless thrilling spectacles, including hand-to-hand combat between gladiators, contests between men and animals, and even larger battles, such as mock naval engagements. Although the arena was said to have been the site of the martyrdom of early Christians, this claim remains uncertain.
A Monument in Peril and Renewal: The Colosseum’s Decline and Preservation
In medieval times, the Colosseum was used as a church, then as a fortress by the prominent Roman families, the Frangipane and the Annibaldi. The Colosseum suffered damage from lightning, earthquakes, vandalism, and pollution. All the marble seats and decorative materials vanished, as the site was used as a quarry for over a thousand years. The preservation of the Colosseum began in earnest in the 19th century, with notable efforts led by Pius VIII. A comprehensive restoration project was undertaken in the 1990s, returning the Colosseum to its former glory.
A Legacy of Timeless Wonder: The Colosseum Today
Today, the Colosseum stands as one of Rome’s most beloved tourist attractions, welcoming close to seven million visitors annually. Regularly changing exhibitions explore the rich culture of ancient Rome, bringing history to life for a global audience. The Colosseum stands as a testament to the ingenuity and grandeur of the Roman Empire, captivating generations with its timeless beauty and enduring legacy.
