COLOSSEO

The Colosseum or Coliseum, is the most famous Roman amphitheatre and the symbol monument of the city.

It was built by the emperors of the gens Flavia, Vespasian and Titus around 70 and 81 AD in the heart of Rome and exactly in the eastern area of the Roman Forum.

 

Meeting place used for gladiators’ contests and public spectacles.

The arena facade was 50 mt high; the elliptical shape had a circumference of 527 mt, 86 mt long and 54 mt large. The underground beneath the arena floor made up of chambers and passageways for beasts can be clearly seen today.

 

During the VI century the Colosseum was abandoned and gradually became overgrown.

In the Middle Ages the Colosseum became a fortress. It was later used as a quarry for Travertine and marble for churches and buildings construction.

 

In 1980 Unesco acquired the Colosseum and included it on the World Heritage List.

Its glory increased in 2007 when it was numbered by critics among the seventh wonders of the World.

 

Next to the Colosseum there isthe great Arch of Constantine, erected in honour of Constantine to celebrate his victory. On the other side, between Labicana Street and S.Giovanni in Laterano Street you can look up to the “Ludus Magnus” ruins, principal training school for gladiators.

 

The charm of this monument is unspeakable and neither tourist guides nor pictures can express the emotion you feel in front of this giant of the past, witness of century of history in the eternal city.

 

Roman citizens are glad to share with tourists the overshadowing beauty of the Colosseum. We are sure it will be your best souvenir! 

The Colosseum from the heart of Rome to the heart of all.