Dreaming of experiencing the Colosseum like a true gladiator? Picture yourself walking onto the reconstructed Arena Floor, feeling the very same ground that echoed with the cheers and roars of ancient Rome. Get ready to uncover the secrets of this iconic landmark and learn how you can visit the Colosseum Arena Floor!
But first, gather all your resources in one place! Bookmark this page to easily find our complete Colosseum guide, top-rated tours, and must-see highlights.
The Colosseum Arena Floor: A Journey Through Time
Imagine a time when the Flavian Amphitheatre, later known as the Colosseum, was being built. Emperor Vespasian started construction in 72 AD, and his son, Titus, completed it in 80 AD. The reign of Domitian (81-96 AD) brought further embellishments to this majestic structure.
The inauguration games were a spectacle like no other, lasting over 100 consecutive days! The Flavian Amphitheatre brimmed with lavish games and entertainment, with gladiator games being the undisputed star. The emperor, ever the prankster, even used the ingenious trap door system to surprise gladiators with not-so-ferocious animals like chickens!
The arena floor, aptly named after the Latin word for “sand” (“arena”), was the stage for all the action. Made of wood and covered with a layer of sand, it absorbed the blood spilled by gladiators, animals, and criminals.
Time marches on, and in the 6th century, the floor was removed, marking the end of the gladiator battles. Fortunately, the 1990s saw the reconstruction of a section of the arena floor, offering visitors a glimpse into the Colosseum’s vibrant past.
Still haven’t booked a tour? Find out why a Colosseum tour is an absolute must!
Exploring the Colosseum Arena Floor: A Journey Through Time
The Colosseum was a masterpiece of crowd control. With 80 entrances, spectators flowed in quickly and efficiently. Each entrance was numbered, ensuring that visitors could find their designated seats in a flash.
Out of the 80 entrances, 76 were for the general public, while the remaining four were the Grand Entrances: the North Gate, the South Gate, the Gate of Life, and the Gate of Death.
The gladiators would enter the arena through the Gate of Life and, if victorious, exit the same way. Those who perished in battle would be carried out through the Gate of Death.
Stepping onto the reconstructed arena floor provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Colosseum. You’ll spot the reconstructed trap door used to bring animals or slaves into the arena. But the real highlight is the opportunity to explore the Hypogeum, the intricate underground network that was vital to the Colosseum’s daily operation.
Still need convincing about a tour? Discover our best Colosseum tours and why they’re worth every penny!
An Unforgettable Colosseum Experience
Visiting the Colosseum is an experience you’ll cherish forever. Make it truly memorable by skipping the lines with our skip-the-line tickets! Join a tour guided by an expert who can share endless stories and fascinating facts about this wonder of the world.
As you stand on the Arena Floor, other visitors will be looking down at you in awe, wondering how you got there. You’ll smile, knowing you made the right choice. This tour also includes a guided exploration of the second floor and the Roman Forum, the heart of Roman high society.
For a deeper dive into the Colosseum’s history, consider a Colosseum Underground tour which includes the Arena Floor, the Underground, and the Roman Forum. If you’re looking for something truly magical, our Colosseum night tour offers a unique perspective.
Remember, Underground tickets are highly limited and sell out quickly. Book ahead or opt for our popular Arena Floor tour.
Colosseum Opening Hours and Accessibility
The Colosseum is open seven days a week, except on December 25th and January 1st. Opening hours vary throughout the year.
January 2nd to February 15th: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
February 16th to March 15th: 8:30 am – 5 pm
March 16th to the last Saturday of March: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Last Sunday of March to August 31st: 8:30 am – 7:15 pm
September 1st to September 30th: 8:30 am – 7:00 pm
October 1st to the last Sunday of October: 8:30 am – 6:30 pm
Last Sunday of October to December 31st: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
The Colosseum Arena Floor can only be accessed with a guided tour at specific dates and times, so check for availability before you plan your trip.
