The Colosseum

The Colosseum: November 14^th

 

            During our excursion to Rome, we visited the Flavian Amphitheater, more commonly known as the Colosseum.  The name “Colosseum” originates from the colossal statue of Nero which used to stand in front of the building.  The Flavian Amphitheater was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and was completed by Emperor Titus in 80 AD.  The plot of land on which it was built was formerly owned by Emperor Nero for his palace, the Domus Aura.  Nero’s artificial lake was filled, and the amphitheater was built directly on top of it. 

The Colosseum measures 188 meters by 156 meters and is over 48 meters tall.  The amphitheater could accommodate 55,000 people.  The tiers of seating were organized hierarchically: the seats closest to the fighting were reserved for the richest and most influential spectators, and there was standing room only on the highest level for the slaves and poor spectators.  The amphitheater could be filled and emptied in record time.  It was also equipt with a velarium, an awning that shaded spectators from the sun. 

The grand opening of the Colosseum lasted 100 days, and around 5,000 animals were slaughtered.  The most popular games were the hunts and gladiatorial games, but early on sea battles were also reenacted by filling the Colosseum with water.  Later, the hypogea, the area under the Colosseum’s floor, was constructed and trap doors were added to enhance excitement.   

Today, the Colosseum is a major tourist attraction.  We were able to tour the amphitheater and see what remains of this ancient Roman architectural masterpiece.