FAQs & Tips
Did you know?
Some useful hints before arriving in Rome
6 must-knows about the symbol of Rome… the Colosseum!
1. The Colosseum wasn’t always called that
The original name of the Colosseum was the Flavian Amphitheater, named after the Flavian Dynasty of emperors who built it.
2. It could seat up to 80,000 people
The Colosseum is the largest Amphitheater ever built and could hold up to 80,000 spectators. It was used for various events such as gladiator battles, animal hunts, and public executions.
3. Contests took place over 100 days
The games sometimes went on for 100 days! Eventually, however, the contests no longer involved the killing of animals and gladiator fights. The last gladiator fights were held in 435 AD and the last animal hunts were in 532 AD.
4. It was used for over 500 years
The Colosseum was in use for over 500 years, from its construction in AD 80 until the 6th century AD. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum was used for other purposes, such as as a cemetery and a fortress.
5. It was also used for nautical battles
In addition to animal hunts and gladiator battles, the Colosseum was also used for nautical battles. The arena was flooded with water, and battles between ships took place.
6. It was destroyed by natural disasters
The Colosseum has been severely damaged by at least 3 massive fires and 4 earthquakes. It has undergone multiple repairs and renovations to restore it back to its glory over the years. Despite being nearly 2000 years old, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built by humans, you can’t miss it during your stay in the Eternal City!