The Colosseum is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Roman Empire and one of Italy's most popular attractions today, receiving millions of visitors annually. Also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, this ancient arena is the largest amphitheatre in the world, the largest ever built in the Roman Empire, built of concrete and stone.
The Colosseum is located just east of the Roman Forum and was built to a practical design, with its 80 arched entrances allowing easy access to 55,000 spectators, who were seated according to rank. The Coliseum is huge, an ellipse 188m long and 156 wide and was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles such as executions, animal hunts, re-enactments of famous battles and dramas based on Classical mythology.
Entry was free for all Roman citizens. Places were divided according to social status, the seats at the top were for the common people, but with distinct sections for men and women. In the front row were senators, vestals, priests and the emperor. A few years ago, part of the arena floor has been re-floored. Beneath the Colosseum, a network of subterranean passageways once used to transport wild animals and gladiators to the arena opened to the public in summer 2010.
The Colosseum is also the site of Roman Catholic ceremonies in the 20th and 21st centuries. Because of the ruined state of the interior, it is impractical to use the Colosseum to host large events. However, much larger concerts have been held just outside, using the Colosseum as a backdrop. Opening hours are from 8.30 am to one hour before sunset. A visit to the Colosseum means a lot of time on your feet, walking around the vast site.
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