Let’s talk about one of the most beautiful and unique cities in the world, Rome. This amazing city is full of art, architecture and in every corner, there is a historic building, there is something worth seeing it.

And if you want to know more about the city check 13 Interesting and funny facts about Rome you probably didn’t know.

The Italian capital is also home of the most impressive monument of Ancient Rome, Colosseum. You must have heard about gladiators, about this fascinating construction and probably know a thing or two about its history. It’s a symbol of Italy and one of the main tourist attractions.

If this monument is not on your bucket list, here are few facts about the Colosseum that can change your mind.

 

#1 My name is…

It’s known as Roman Colosseum or Coliseum and in Italian is Colosseo. But it was originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre. By the way, the largest amphitheater (theatre in the round) in the world.

Source: Flickr/mariosp

#2 Who built it?

The construction of the monument started in 72 A.D by Emperor Vespasian and was completed by his son Titus in 80 A.D. Other modifications were made during the reign of Domitian during 81 A.D and 96 A.D.

#3 And was made with…

Made from concrete and more than 700,000 tons of stone, the monument even had the velarium, a cover that was pulled over the top of the seating area to provide shade.

#4 How big is the Colosseum?

If you think that the Colosseum has a small area, think again. It’s ‎189 meters (615 ft) long and 156 meters 510 ft wide.

#5 How many people can you fit in the Colosseum?

The Colosseum has a practical design since its 80 arched entrances allowed the access of 50,000 spectators.

Source: Flickr/Stu Rapley

#6 How was it used?

The monument was used by Emperor Vespasian to gain popularity by hosting deadly combats of gladiators and wild animals fight for public amusement. Wait, let’s not forget about the naval ship battles!

Hosted by Emperor Titus, the first games were held in 80 A.D, and it lasted 100 days straight.

The entrance was free, and sometimes the public also received free food.

#7 Let the gladiators in!

The gladiators were usually slaves, prisoners of war or condemned criminals and didn’t think that the profession was exclusively for men, there were also female gladiators. Gladiators and animals were kept in rooms and passages underground the arena.

The rich, the poor and the emperor himself were spectators of the combats and in a single day around 10,000 animals were killed. At one point, when the ground became too soaked with blood, they would pause the performance and cover the floor with a fresh layer of sand.

#8 A symbol against the death penalty

The Coliseum, which was the scene of numerous fights in which thousands of people died, is, today, a symbol in favor of Human Rights and, more specifically, against the death penalty. The monument is illuminated every time, anywhere in the world, a person is saved from the death penalty or when the legislation that consents it somewhere in the world is repealed.

#9 It is the most visited monument in Italy

The Colosseum ranked first in the ranking of the highest prizes in Italy, with an average of 6 million visitors per year.

How to avoid the queues

Now that you know a little more about the most recognizable monument of ancient Rome, it is time to book your visit. How about discover 3 of the symbols of Rome and icons of Italy itself in one day? You can visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.

With Veditalia besides skipping the line, you get to book a small group tour, have a legally licensed English speaking tour guide and get tips and suggestions for your stay in Rome.