One of the most popular attractions in the world is the ancient Roman Colosseum, which is recognized not only as a symbol of the whole of Italy and Rome in particular, but also one of the seven wonders of the world. This amphitheater of colossal dimensions, miraculously preserved to our time as a monument of the ancient world.
Who built the Colosseum in Rome?
The Coliseum was erected in the center of Rome, thanks to the irrepressible self-love of Emperor Vespasian, who wanted to outshine the glory of the former ruler of Nero with all his might. Thus, Titus Flavius Vespasian made a decision in the Golden House, which was once the palace of Nero, to place the imperial institutions of power, and in the place of a covered lake near the palace to erect the largest amphitheater. So, around the year 72, large-scale construction began, which lasted for 8 years. During this time, Vespasian died suddenly and was replaced by his eldest son Titus, who completed the construction of the Roman Coliseum. In 80, the grand opening of the majestic amphitheater took place, and its centuries-old history began with holiday games that lasted 100 days, in which thousands of gladiators and as many wild animals participated.
The architecture of the Colosseum in Rome - interesting facts
The Colosseum is built in the shape of an ellipse, inside it is an arena of the same shape, around which in four tiers there are seats for spectators. It is worth noting that in the architectural plan the Roman Colosseum is built in the style of a classical amphitheater, however its dimensions, unlike other similar structures, simply amaze the imagination. It is the largest amphitheater in the world: its outer elliptical circle is 524 m long, 50 m high, 188 m long axis, 156 m small axis; The arena, in the middle of the ellipse, has a length of 86 m and a width of 54 m.
According to ancient Roman manuscripts, thanks to its size, the Coliseum could simultaneously accommodate about 87,000 people, but modern researchers adhere to a figure of no more than 50,000. Seats were divided into levels relative to a certain class. The lower row, which provided an excellent view of the arena, was intended for the emperor and his family, and also at this level the senators could observe fights. On the higher level there were places for the class of horsemen, even higher - for wealthy citizens of Rome, and not for the fourth level were the poor Roman inhabitants.
The Colosseum had 76 entrances, which were located in the circle of the whole structure. Thanks to this, the audience could disperse in 15 minutes, without creating pandemonium. Representatives of your nobility left the amphitheater through special exits, which were withdrawn directly from the lower row.
Where is the Coliseum in Rome and how to get there?
Remind you in what country the Colosseum is, probably not worth it - everyone knows about the great symbol of Italy. But the address by which you can find the Colosseum in Rome, is useful to everyone - Piazza del Colosseo, 1 (metro station Colosseo).
The cost of the ticket to the Colosseum in Rome is 12 euros
The time of the Colosseum in Rome: in the summer - from 9:00 to 18:00, in the winter - from 9:00 to 16:00.
Much to our regret, the Roman Colosseum is no longer that ancient amphitheater, for after many years of its existence, it survived much - the invasion of barbarians, fires, wars, etc. But, in spite of all this, the Coliseum has not lost its greatness and continues attract a huge number of tourists from all over the world.