The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater in the world, it is located in the center of Rome.
The Colosseum is able to contain a number of spectators estimated between 50.000 and 75.000. It is the most important Roman amphitheater as well as it is the most impressive monument of ancient Rome.
It is known in the world as a symbol of the city of Rome and one of the symbols of the Italy. In 1980 it was inserted in the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
Its construction was started by Vespasiano in 72. It was inaugurated by Titus in 80 with further changes made during the empire of Domitian.
In ancient times it was used for gladiatorial shows and other public events (hunting shows, reenactments of famous battles, and dramas based on classical mythology).
Inaugurated in the year 80, there are many possible solutions for the birth of his name:
- there was a colossus in front of, just before the Via dei Fori Imperiali and moved to the left, a statue of gilded bronze 30 meters tall and depicting Nero.
- the construction mode suggests the name
- from the question that was asked to the Christians in front of the monumental construction: « colis eum? » (do you love it?)
- from the place where it stands: Collis Isei, the hill of Isis, for a temple that then gave its name to the area
