The Colosseum of Rome, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is a grand historical and architectural monument with a cylindrical shape, located in Rome, the capital of Italy. It has been included by UNESCO on the list of World Heritage Sites.

It is one of the greatest examples of Roman architecture, showcasing the skills and techniques used by the architects, engineers, and builders of Ancient Rome. In 2007, it was elected one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

HISTORY
The Colosseum was built in the 1st century (around 70 A.D.). Construction began under Emperor Vespasian and was completed during the reign of his son, Titus.

Its main purpose was to entertain the people — a venue for shows, events, and gladiator combat.

Upon its inauguration by Emperor Titus, 100 days of games were held in the arenas. Attractions included executions, naval battles, gladiator fights, and wild animal hunts, among others.

Some events held in the Colosseum featured elaborate scenery, with many based on Roman mythology.

It was used for entertainment for five centuries, and later served as a military base. During the Renaissance — starting in the 15th century — the site was repeatedly looted, losing much of its valuable materials.

STRUCTURE
The outer wall preserves the four floors of the reinforced concrete structure. The three lower tiers feature rows of arches, and the fourth floor is known for its small rectangular windows.

Seats were made of marble and divided into three sections, corresponding to social classes: the podium for the elite, the maeniana for the middle class, and the porticoes for the plebeians and women.

The imperial tribune was located on the podium and flanked by seats for senators and magistrates.

Above the walls, one can still see the bases for the awning system that once protected spectators from the sun. To ensure smooth exits after events, architects designed 80 staircases. The amphitheater could hold up to 80,000 spectators and be completely evacuated in under three minutes.

CURIOSITIES

• Initially, it had three floors, with a fourth added later.
• The Colosseum is 45 meters tall, equivalent to a two-story building.
• The construction took a total of six years.
• It was built using concrete and sand, along with stone, marble, and tile.
• In Ancient Rome, it hosted between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators. About 80 staircases made exits easier.
• During the inaugural games, around 9,000 animals and 2,000 gladiators were killed.
• The arena measured 87.5 meters by 55 meters.
• Some events featured exotic animals imported from Africa, such as lions, panthers, elephants, rhinoceroses, and giraffes.
• Seating was arranged according to social class: podium for the elite, maeniana for the middle class, and porticoes for the lower classes.
• It was built on the site of a major fire that occurred during the reign of Emperor Nero.

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