Why the Colosseum of Rome is special
The Colosseum of Rome is truly colossal - it stands 50 meters (165 feet) high and measures 185 meters (600 feet) long. It was large enough to hold 50,000 roaring spectators when it was inaugurated in 80 AD. Today, it is one of the most dramatic, historic and recognized archaeological monuments on earth.

The original Colosseum of Rome
The animated picture on the left depicts the wonder in its youth. I drew and superimposed its awning over the Caen model. This illustrates how the Colosseum of Rome appeared when its huge awning was temporarily mounted to shield spectators on raining and hot sunny days.

Today's Colosseum of Rome



The wonder is in a partially ruined state, but it is in remarkable condition when you consider it was built nearly 2000 years ago.

Why the Colosseum was built
The Flavian Roman emperors built the Colosseum of Rome for entertaining their subjects (and to distract their minds from the woes of the time).
Among the most popular "crowd pleasers" were bloody contests pitting gladiators against gladiators and wild beasts. Even naval battles were staged in the Colosseum of Rome (the arena's floor was flooded for those events). Non-martial events were staged, too, including lavish theatrical productions and tamed animal acts.

Popular misconceptions
Hollywood movies reinforced some widespread false impressions about the Colosseum of Rome. Historians doubt that the wholesale martyring of Christians occurred there. And, the image of lions eating the Christians before cheering crowds is likely fantasy.
Films have also bolstered the myth that thumbs down meant to kill the person in the arena. It was just the opposite in Roman times. Thumbs up signaled "kill him" and thumbs down, "spare him."

Correct spelling
Which is correct, "Colosseum," "Coliseum" or "Colloseum"? All are correct (though the first two are more widely used),

My other Colosseum web pages
I have two other informative web pages on the Colosseum of Rome, the "interesting tidbit" page and the "concise history" page. Click the below buttons to view them:



What leading travel books say about the Colosseum of Rome
The Colosseum is easily Rome's most awe-inspiring ancient monument.
Italy
Rough Guides

The Colosseum of Rome is a masterpiece of the architecture of Antiquity.
Italy
Michelin Green Guides