Welcome, history buffs and adventure seekers! Prepare to step back in time and uncover the secrets of one of the most iconic symbols of the ancient world: the Roman Colosseum. This magnificent structure whispers tales of gladiatorial battles, wild animal hunts, and the thrill of a bygone era.
Securing Your Colosseum Experience
Tickets to the Colosseum are highly sought after, so planning ahead is crucial. To avoid disappointment, purchase your tickets online in advance.
Exploring Ticket Options
For multi-attraction enthusiasts, the Rome Tourist Card offers a cost-effective and time-saving solution. This card grants access to popular attractions like St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo, or the Borghese Gallery (choose one).
It also includes a handy audio guide app and a 10% discount on additional tickets.
If your focus is solely on the Colosseum and Roman Forum, check out the overview page for available tickets.
For sold-out basic tickets, special tickets offering guided tours, multimedia shows, or arena access may still be available.
Tiqets and GetYourGuide are excellent platforms to expand your ticket search.
For groups of 10 or more, inquire about discounted tickets through groupsightseeing.com.
Delving into Colosseum’s Wonders
The Colosseum’s grandeur begins even before you enter. From afar, its crumbling south side contrasts with the impressive north side, creating a striking visual impact.
This ornate structure, standing tall at 57 meters, was constructed using travertine marble sourced from quarries across Italy. A photo op in front of the Colosseum is a must-have for every visitor.
Ascend the amphitheater to witness the arena from a spectator’s viewpoint. The second floor, once reserved for the elite of Roman society, provides a breathtaking perspective of the colossal structure.
Here, you’ll find small exhibits and information points, showcasing the Colosseum’s history and the artifacts unearthed during archaeological digs.
Descending into the Arena and Hypogeum
Stepping onto the arena floor evokes a palpable sense of history. The chilling reality of bloodshed and countless lost lives lingers in this space. Imagine the thrill of the crowd and the fury of the gladiators, battling for survival.
From the arena, you can explore the Hypogeum, a network of tunnels and chambers that once served as the backstage of the games. This fascinating labyrinth reveals the secrets of the Colosseum’s operations, including trap doors used to bring lions and other predators into the arena.
Special access is required to enter the arena and the Hypogeum, and it is not included in the basic ticket price.
Fascinating Facts and Colosseum’s Timeline
The Colosseum holds secrets beyond gladiatorial combat. Did you know:
- The Colosseum was once the setting for naval battles! Emperor Titus ordered the arena to be flooded for a reenactment of a sea battle between Athens and Syracuse.
- The Colosseum was originally named Flavian Amphitheater. It’s believed the name Colosseum originated from its proximity to the Colossus of Nero, a massive bronze statue.
- In 2007, the Colosseum was recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Tickets to the grand spectacles were often free, paid for by emperors to maintain public morale.
A Journey Through Time: Colosseum’s History Unraveled
The Colosseum’s history spans nearly 2,000 years:
- AD 70-72: Construction begins under the leadership of Vespasian, the founder of the Flavian dynasty.
- AD 80: The Colosseum opens with grand celebrations, marking the beginning of 100 days of games orchestrated by Emperor Titus.
- AD 82: Final touches are added, including the completion of the upper stand, under the reign of Domitian.
- AD 404: With the rise of Christianity, gladiatorial games fall out of favor, and the last gladiatorial fight in Rome takes place in the Colosseum.
- AD 523: The last recorded staged hunt, or venatio, is held.
- AD 1349: A devastating earthquake causes significant damage to the Colosseum, leading to the collapse of the entire outer shell of the south side.
- AD 1750: Pope Benedict XIV declares the Colosseum a “sacred place” and prohibits further damage. Restoration efforts begin.
- AD 1800 onwards: Restoration work intensifies, fueled by the growing fascination with antiquity in the 19th century.
- 1990s: Modern technology and techniques are employed to restore the Colosseum to its former glory.
- Present Day: The Colosseum remains a global icon, welcoming over six million visitors annually.
Finding Your Way to the Colosseum
The Colosseum is located in the heart of Rome, at the Piazza del Colosseo.
To access it via the metro, take the Linea B metro line and disembark at the “Colosseo” station.
Embark on your own historical adventure and experience the Colosseum’s timeless grandeur!
