Colosseum

The Colosseum is an ancient Roman amphitheatre in the centre of Rome, completed in AD 80 under Emperor Titus and originally able to hold tens of thousands of spectators. The building’s external elliptical footprint measures approximately 189 by 156 metres and reached nearly 48 metres in height.

Key features include the central arena, the hypogeum - a two-level underground network of passages and chambers - and multiple seating tiers divided by social class. The structure hosted gladiatorial contests and public spectacles from its opening through the Roman Imperial period.

Constructed beginning under Emperor Vespasian around AD 72 and finished by his son Titus, the Colosseum later suffered damage from earthquakes and stone robbing and was repurposed in various ways over the centuries. Archaeological work has focused on conservation and partial restoration to preserve its structure.

Located just east of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill in central Rome, the Colosseum is within walking distance of many central city sites and public transport links.

• Combined ticket: Combined tickets usually include entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, so plan time to visit the surrounding archaeological areas in the same day.
• Best time to visit: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds and to access certain restricted areas when available through guided tours.

What to See #

• Arena: The central arena area where events were held; much of the original wooden floor is gone but the surrounding elliptical seating and partial arena reconstructions can be seen.
• Hypogeum: The hypogeum is the two-level underground network of tunnels and chambers beneath the arena floor that once held animals, gladiators and stage machinery.
• Upper tiers: The upper seating rings offer views over the city and reveal the building's full elliptical footprint of roughly 189 by 156 metres and original height near 48 metres.