42.Colosseum – Flavian Amphitheatre
Enjoy The Colosseum Free Video Guide
Venatio gladiatore e leone Studio artist of Firmin Didot, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Senatori Cesare Maccari, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Gladiatore nel colosseo Jean-Léon Gérôme, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons sine missionem Jean-Léon Gérôme, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Trapdoors Jean-Léon Gérôme, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Gladiatore entra nell’arena Nicolao Landucci, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Chi erano i gladiatori José Moreno Carbonero, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Vespasiano e Tito Lawrence Alma-Tadema, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Sezione colosseo
The Flavian Amphitheatre
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an iconic symbol of ancient Rome’s grandeur. This colossal elliptical structure was built under Emperors Vespasian and Titus and completed in 80 AD. Later, Domitian added underground structures beneath the arena, creating a backstage area. After a devastating fire in 64 AD, the Colosseum symbolized Rome’s reconstruction. Its elaborate design highlights a remarkable feat of engineering and Roman Empire’s architectural prowess.
Why Is It So Important?
The Colosseum is more than an architectural wonder. It symbolizes Rome’s imperial might and cultural vibrancy. It reflects the grandeur of the Roman Empire and its ability to construct monumental public buildings. Additionally, it represents the social and political life of ancient Rome, where emperors and citizens gathered for entertainment. Today, it stands as a powerful reminder of Rome’s historical legacy and attracts visitors from around the world.
How Can You Experience the Colosseum?
To fully appreciate the Colosseum, consider a guided tour. This will provide deeper insights into its history and significance. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can offer a quieter experience and better lighting for photography. Also, explore the surrounding area, including the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. This will enhance your understanding of the Colosseum’s historical context.
You Can Not Miss!
- The Facade: Marvel at the monumental outer walls, which feature a series of arches and columns from different architectural orders (Doric on the ground level, Ionic on the second, and Corinthian on the third). The sheer size and grandeur of the facade give a sense of the scale and engineering prowess of ancient Rome.
- The Arch of Constantine: Located just steps from the Colosseum, this triumphal arch was built in 315 AD to commemorate Constantine I’s victory. Although not part of the Colosseum, it is closely associated with the area and worth admiring for its sculptures and inscriptions.
- The Arena Floor: Picture the blood-stirring gladiatorial combats that once took place here. Today, you can walk on a reconstructed portion of the arena floor to experience what it might have felt like for the fighters. Imagine the roar of 50,000 spectators surrounding this iconic space.
- The Hypogeum: Explore the intricate network of underground tunnels and chambers beneath the arena. This was the backstage of the Colosseum, where animals, prisoners, and gladiators waited before being hoisted onto the arena floor. The engineering that allowed for trapdoors and lifts is an incredible feat of Roman ingenuity.
- Seating Tiers:
- The Podium: Closest to the action, these were the best seats in the house, reserved for senators, VIPs, and important dignitaries.
- Maenianum Primum: The tier just above the podium, designated for wealthy noble citizens of Rome.
- Maenianum Secundum:
- Imum (Lower Section): For wealthy commoners (the plebeians).
- Summum (Upper Section): For the poorer commoners, a stark contrast from the elite at the bottom.
- Maenianum Summum in Ligneis: The uppermost tier, a wooden structure, reserved for the lowest class of society, including women and the poorest citizens. It is a reminder of the rigid social stratification of ancient Rome.
- Porta Triumphalis: The ceremonial entrance for gladiators, a significant passage leading into the heart of the arena, often filled with both hope and fear.
- Porta Libitinensis: The grim exit from which the bodies of fallen gladiators or animals were removed. Its name is derived from Libitina, the Roman goddess of death.
- Velarium: A massive retractable awning system that provided shade to the spectators on hot days. The engineering behind this is extraordinary, as sailors were often employed to manage the ropes and canvas that stretched across the seating areas.
- Spoliarium: The area where the bodies of dead gladiators were taken after the combat, stripped of armor and valuables before being carried away. This place held a somber, almost industrial purpose in the grand spectacle of death that the games represented.
- Throughout the Colosseum, you will find various exhibits that detail its construction, the daily life of the Romans, and the gladiatorial games. These often include original artifacts, such as weaponry, armor, and even pieces of the original structure. Don’t miss the chance to dive into the rich history through multimedia displays and reconstructions.
- Make your way to different levels within the Colosseum for spectacular views. Not only will you gain new perspectives on the architectural marvel of the interior, but the higher vantage points also offer breathtaking views of Rome, including the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
- The Subterranean World of the Colosseum: Recent excavations have revealed even more about the underground world beneath the arena, and special tours often offer access to these sections, adding depth to your understanding of the complex workings of this ancient wonder.
- The Spiritual Legacy: Over time, the Colosseum also became a symbol of Christian martyrdom, and there are often discussions about its role in Christian history, with the Pope sometimes holding ceremonies here.
How To Reach It
Step back into the Ancient Imperial Rome
Details of the model of the Plan of Rome by Paul Bigot. UNICAEN - CIREVE
Photogrammetry by Benoît ROGEZ
- Ready-to-follow walking routes
- Short videos you can watch on the go
- Explore Rome without planning
