The Colosseum, a towering symbol of ancient Rome, stands as a testament to the architectural and engineering genius of the Roman Empire. More than just a relic of the past, the Colosseum is a thriving tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year and generating substantial revenue for the Italian government. In 2018 alone, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill together generated over $63.3 million (€53.8 million), making it Italy’s most lucrative tourist attraction.
This ancient wonder has witnessed both glory and decay. 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 repurposed the arena as a fortress, while in the late 15th century, Pope Alexander VI permitted its use as a quarry. The Colosseum was stripped of its precious materials and left to crumble under the weight of neglect. It wasn’t until the 1990s that state-funded restoration efforts breathed new life into this once-forgotten monument.
A Monument to Power and Entertainment
The Colosseum was commissioned by the emperor Vespasian as part of a grand project to revitalize Rome following the tumultuous year of the four emperors in 69 CE. Like other amphitheatres, Vespasian intended the Colosseum to be a spectacle of entertainment, hosting thrilling gladiator fights, animal hunts, and even elaborate mock naval battles. The Colosseum was designed to captivate the Roman populace and cement the emperors’ power through lavish displays of power and spectacle.
Construction began under Vespasian between 70 and 72 CE, and the completed structure was dedicated in 80 CE by his son and successor, Titus. The Colosseum’s fourth story was added by Emperor Domitian in 82 CE. The arena was funded by the spoils of war, specifically from Titus’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 CE. Jewish slaves from Judea were forced to work on the Colosseum’s construction.
Engineering Marvel and Spectacle of Antiquity
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an impressive elliptical structure made of stone, concrete, and tuff. It stands four stories tall at its highest point, measuring a remarkable 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters). Its enormous capacity could hold up to 50,000 spectators, making it one of the largest entertainment venues of its time. The Colosseum was renowned for its gladiatorial combat, where skilled warriors faced each other in fierce battles, captivating audiences with their skill and courage.
The Colosseum was strategically located just east of the Palatine Hill, on the grounds of Nero’s Golden House. The artificial lake that was the centerpiece of Nero’s palace complex was drained, and the Colosseum was built in its place. This decision was as symbolic as it was practical. Vespasian, who rose to power from humble beginnings, sought to replace the tyrannical emperor’s private extravagance with a public amphitheater that could unite and entertain the Roman people.
A Legacy of Entertainment and History
The Colosseum was officially dedicated in 80 CE by Titus in a grand ceremony that lasted for 100 days. This spectacular event marked the beginning of the Colosseum’s reign as a stage for countless gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and mock naval battles. The structure was designed to provide maximum comfort and protection for the audience. Spectators were sheltered from the sun by a massive retractable velarium (awning), supported by masts extending from the Colosseum’s top story. Hundreds of Roman sailors were employed to manipulate the velarium, ensuring optimal viewing conditions for the crowds.
While the Colosseum was undoubtedly a symbol of Roman power and spectacle, its use as a venue for early Christian martyrdom remains uncertain. Nevertheless, its impact on Roman culture and entertainment is undeniable. It served as a place of excitement and entertainment for the Romans, where they could witness the triumphs and struggles of gladiators and other performers.
From Glory to Neglect and Restoration
Medieval times saw the Colosseum repurposed as a church and later used as a fortress by the Frangipane and Annibaldi families. However, its fate took a tragic turn as it was ravaged by lightning, earthquakes, vandalism, and pollution. The Colosseum was stripped of its marble seats and decorative elements, treated as a quarry for centuries. It remained in this state of neglect for over a thousand years, until preservation efforts began in earnest in the 19th century. Notable figures, such as Pope Pius VIII, spearheaded these efforts, culminating in a major restoration project in the 1990s.
Today, the Colosseum stands as one of Rome’s most iconic tourist attractions, attracting millions of visitors each year. It continues to captivate the imaginations of travelers from around the world, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and spectacle of ancient Rome. Regular exhibitions showcasing the culture of ancient Rome are held within the Colosseum, further enhancing the visitor experience. The Colosseum remains a testament to the enduring power of Roman civilization, and its story continues to fascinate and inspire generations of visitors.