General

The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater built in the Roman Empire, situated in the centre of Rome. Its construction started between 70 and 72 AD under the emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD under Titus. It is one of the most impressive works of Roman architecture. The Colosseum was used for gladiator fights and different spectacles. It has been estimated that about 500,000 people and over a million wild animals died in the Colosseum games. Gladiatorial battles were banned by a Christian emperor in 407 CE. This was the largest public arena, seating 50,000 people. It had 76 entrances, the Emperor and the gladiators having their own private entrances.

The ruins of the Colosseum are a main tourist attraction in Rome. Even 2,000 years after it was build, it is instantly recognizable, and visited by tourists from all over the world.