The Colosseum

The Colosseum is located in Italy and is the largest amphitheatre in Rome. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The colosseum is a monument to the Roman Empires power and cruelty. The Colosseum is considered to be one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and engineering.

History

The construction was started between 70 and 72 AD by Emperor Vespasian. Titus , Vespasian's son, took over the construction in 80 AD and it was completed by Domitian, Titus's brother. It is believe that thousands of slaves were needed to lift and transport all the materials used to build the Colosseum. The Colosseum was dedicated in 80 AD with gladiatorial games lasting 100 days. The Colosseum remained in service for four and a half centuries.

Fast Facts

1. AKA: Flavian Amphitheatre
2. Built: 70-80 AD
3. Built by: Emperor Vespasian
4. Seated: 50,000 people
5. Used for: Gladiatorial games, public spectacles, dramas, executions
6. Last used for entertainment: 6th century AD
7. Later uses: Housing, workshops, fortress, quarry, Christian shrine
8. Popular tourist attraction

Quote

This great amphitheater in the centre of Rome was built to give favors to successful legionnaires and to celebrate the glory of the Roman Empire. Its design concept still stands to this very day, and virtually every modern sports stadium some 2,000 years later still bears the irresistible imprint of the Colosseum's original design. Today, through films and history books, we are even more aware of the cruel fights and games that took place in this arena, all for the joy of the spectators. — New 7 Wonders

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