The Colosseum, a towering monument to ancient Rome’s architectural and engineering brilliance, stands as one of the few mostly intact structures from the Roman Empire. Its grandeur continues to draw visitors from around the world, making it a significant source of revenue for the Italian government. In 2018 alone, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill collectively generated over €53.8 million, solidifying their place as Italy’s top tourist attraction.
From Glory to Neglect
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Colosseum fell into a state of serious disrepair. During the 12th century, it was repurposed as a fortress by the Frangipane and Annibaldi families. In the late 15th century, Pope Alexander VI even permitted the Colosseum to be used as a quarry. For over a thousand years, this magnificent structure faced neglect, its grandeur fading with each passing century. Thankfully, state-funded restoration efforts began in the 1990s, breathing new life into this architectural wonder.
A Monument to Entertainment
The Colosseum’s construction began during the reign of Vespasian, the Roman emperor, between 70 and 72 CE, as part of an imperial effort to revitalize Rome following the tumultuous year of the four emperors (69 CE). Like other amphitheatres, Vespasian envisioned the Colosseum as a spectacle, a place to host gladiator fights, animal hunts, and even mock naval battles.
Building a Legacy
The Colosseum’s construction continued under Titus, Vespasian’s son and successor. The completed structure was dedicated in 80 CE. Later, in 82 CE, Domitian, Titus’s brother, added the Colosseum’s fourth story. Interestingly, the construction of this grand arena was financed by the plunder obtained from Titus’s sack of Jerusalem in 70 CE, built by enslaved Jews from Judea.
A Colossal Structure
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an elliptical structure made of stone, concrete, and tuff. Standing four stories tall, this impressive edifice measures a staggering 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 metres), capable of holding up to 50,000 spectators. The Colosseum became synonymous with gladiatorial combat, a spectacle that captivated the Roman populace.
A Symbol of Imperial Power
The Colosseum’s location itself was a symbolic gesture. Built just east of the Palatine Hill, on the site of Nero’s Golden House, it replaced Nero’s lavish private lake with a public amphitheater. This symbolic act signified Vespasian’s commitment to the Roman people, replacing the tyrannical emperor’s private indulgence with a public space for entertainment and social gathering.
A Masterpiece of Architecture
Unlike earlier amphitheatres, which were often dug into hillsides for support, the Colosseum is a freestanding structure, showcasing the Roman’s innovative use of materials and construction techniques. The Colosseum’s three lower stories feature arcades framed by engaged columns in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders, a design that inspired Renaissance architects. The structure’s travertine framework, volcanic tufa walls, and concrete inner bowl and arcade vaults stand as a testament to Roman engineering ingenuity.
A Spectacle for the Masses
The Colosseum’s design catered to the comfort and entertainment of its massive audience. A retractable awning, known as the velarium, provided shade for the spectators. Hundreds of Roman sailors were responsible for manipulating the rigging that extended and retracted this massive awning, ensuring the comfort of the spectators even under the scorching Roman sun. The Colosseum served as a venue for a variety of spectacles including gladiator fights, animal hunts, and even mock naval engagements.
A Long and Turbulent History
In medieval times, the Colosseum was repurposed as a church, then later as a fortress by the Frangipane and Annibaldi families. Over time, the Colosseum was damaged by lightning, earthquakes, vandalism, and pollution. The once magnificent marble seats and decorative materials were plundered, leaving the structure in a state of near ruin.
A Rebirth of Grandeur
Preservation efforts began in earnest during the 19th century, with notable contributions from Pius VIII, and gained momentum with a major restoration project undertaken in the 1990s. Today, the Colosseum stands as a major tourist attraction, welcoming nearly seven million visitors annually. Regularly mounted exhibitions provide visitors with insights into the culture of ancient Rome.
A Timeless Legacy
The Colosseum is more than just a magnificent structure; it represents the endurance of human ingenuity and the power of ancient Rome. This timeless monument continues to captivate the imagination, reminding us of the grand scale and artistic prowess of the Roman Empire. As visitors marvel at the Colosseum’s grandeur, they are transported back to a time when gladiators fought, emperors reigned, and Rome ruled the world.
