If we ask you ‘Have you ever seen the movie GLADIATOR?
We wouldn’t believe it if you answered NO! Do you at least know the soundtrack?
Come on, we believe that you have seen the film that brought people all over the world so close to what life could have been like in that period, to what the power of Rome could have been, and the courage of the slaves, the gladiators!
But the Colosseum was not a place where we witnessed battles between men and men and exotic animals, it was much more, and since we encourage our young people so much to visit this wonderful eternal city, we leave you with the short reading regarding the extraordinary peculiarity of this monument with our advice, to experience the visit to the Colosseum in the most comfortable and pleasant way!
Historical notes on the Colosseum
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, is one of the most iconic symbols of Rome and ancient Roman civilization.
It is the largest amphitheater ever built, designed to host spectators in a context of grandeur and spectacularity.
Today it is considered a cultural heritage of immense value and a world historical landmark.
The birth of the Colosseum
Construction of the Colosseum began under Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty, around 70-72 AD, and was completed by Emperor Titus in 80 AD, although finishing work continued under Domitian, another member of the same dynasty.
The name “Flavian Amphitheatre” derives from the imperial family who promoted its construction.
Vespasian decided to build the Colosseum on a symbolic area: the artificial lake that was part of the luxurious Domus Aurea, the palace built by Nero after the fire of Rome in 64 AD. The choice to build the amphitheater in that place represented an act of restitution to the people of Rome, in response to the excesses and self-referentiality of the previous regime.
Who designed the Colosseum
Although the precise name of the architect who designed the Colosseum has not come down to us, we know that its construction represented a colossal undertaking, both from an engineering and organizational point of view. Roman architects used advanced techniques for the time, making extensive use of concrete, travertine and brick. The structure, with an elliptical shape, was designed to optimize visibility from every angle and guarantee easy access and exit for spectators.
The emperors who participated
The Colosseum was inaugurated by Titus with a series of grand games lasting 100 days, during which thousands of wild animals are said to have been killed. Subsequent emperors, such as Domitian, continued to use it as an instrument of power and propaganda, organizing increasingly spectacular events to maintain the favor of the people.
Even in the centuries following the Flavian dynasty, many emperors used the Colosseum as a stage for events of great public impact. Trajan, for example, organized festivals here celebrating his military victories, while during the reign of Caracalla the gladiatorial games reached their peak in terms of participation and pomp.
What was done inside the Colosseum
The Colosseum was primarily used for public performances which included:
Ludi gladiatori: Fights between gladiators who often challenged each other to the death. Gladiators could be slaves, prisoners of war or criminals, but some of them also became folk heroes.
Hunts and venationes: Hunting shows in which gladiators, or sometimes condemned to death, fought against wild animals such as lions, tigers, bears and even elephants.
Naumachie: Naval combats simulated inside the arena, which was temporarily filled with water for the occasion.
Public Executions: The Colosseum was also used for spectacular executions, in which the condemned were exposed to wild animals or executed in other brutal ways.
Why the Colosseum has become such an important historical monument
The Colosseum was not just a place of entertainment, but a symbol of imperial power and the greatness of Rome. Its impressive architecture and capacity to accommodate over 50,000 spectators made it a perfect space to demonstrate the wealth and strength of the Empire.
With the fall of the Roman Empire, the amphitheater suffered a progressive decline and was reused for various purposes, including quarrying building materials and fortification. Despite this, its fame survived the test of time, and during the Middle Ages it began to be associated with legends, such as the one according to which it was the place of martyrdom of numerous Christians. Although this idea is mostly the result of a myth, it contributed to making the Colosseum a sacred place.
In the 19th century, the first restoration works were started to preserve this extraordinary monument, which today is one of the most visited sites in the world and one of the most powerful symbols of classical culture. Its historical importance derives not only from its original function, but also from its symbolic value: it is a lasting testimony to the majesty of Roman architecture and human ingenuity, capable of surviving the centuries and continuing to inspire generations.
The Colosseum, as well as an architectural wonder, represents Rome’s glorious past and the complex intertwining of power, entertainment and society that characterized ancient Roman civilisation.
VISIT TO THE COLISEUM: Tips from the youth hostel, lover of history
It’s best to book tickets online, so we leave the site here for you.
But in addition to this we leave you with a series of tips:
Buy tickets in advance
The Colosseum is one of the most visited attractions in Rome, so it is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. Also consider purchasing combined tickets that include the Roman Forum and the Palatine, which are often cheaper.
- Choose the right time
Try to visit the Colosseum early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak visitor numbers and summer heat. The sunset light also provides beautiful lighting for photos.
- Book a guided tour
To enrich the experience, consider a guided tour. An expert guide can explain historical details, curiosities and tell fascinating stories that may not be evident during a self-guided visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes
The visit to the Colosseum includes a lot of walking, especially if you continue with the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. Surfaces can be uneven, so comfortable shoes are essential.
- Bring water and sunscreen
During the summer, the sun in Rome can be very intense and there are few areas of shade inside the Colosseum. Bring a bottle of water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected.
If possible, book a tour that includes the Colosseum underground. This is one of the most fascinating places, where gladiators and animals were kept before being taken to the arena. These areas are not included in standard tickets.
- Visit the upstairs
Be sure to visit the upper levels of the Colosseum for spectacular panoramic views of the entire arena and its surroundings, including the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
- Respect the visiting time
Timed tickets allow you to enter during a specific time slot. Arrive on time to avoid missing your reserved entry, especially if you have booked in advance.
- Watch out for pickpockets
As in many busy tourist spots, beware of pickpockets. Bring only what you need and always keep your things under control.
- Consider a sightseeing pass
If you plan to visit multiple monuments in Rome, consider purchasing the Roma Pass or Omnia Card which include entrances to various sites, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum and other monuments.
Also visit at night
During certain periods of the year, the Colosseum offers night visits. It is a unique opportunity to see the monument with a different perspective, illuminated and without the typical crowds of the day.
- Bring a camera with you
The Colosseum offers endless photography opportunities, so don’t forget your camera or make sure your smartphone is charged to capture great images.
- Explore your surroundings
After your visit, also explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which are included in most Colosseum tickets. These sites are rich in ruins and offer a more complete understanding of daily life in ancient Rome.
- Take time to relax
After the visit, stop in one of the nearby bars or restaurants to relax and reflect on your experience, perhaps enjoying a good coffee or a typical Roman ice cream.
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ARE YOU READY TO RELIVE THE GREAT HISTORY OF ROME?
Best regards Young!