Rome Colosseum

About the Colosseum

Rome is the capital of Italy and the Eternal City, known for its iconic Colosseum and rich ancient heritage. The city combines classical Roman architecture with modern Italian culture, featuring the Vatican City, Roman Forum, and vibrant street life.

Construction of the Flavian Amphitheatre began under Vespasian around AD 72 and was inaugurated by his son Titus in AD 80 with games lasting one hundred days, with further work under Domitian. The name "Colosseum" came into common use in the medieval period, likely from the nearby Colossus of Nero. Holding an estimated 50,000 or more spectators, it hosted gladiatorial combat and animal hunts until late antiquity, then served as fortress, housing and quarry. Its association with Christian martyrdom is traditional rather than documented, and the Good Friday papal procession held there reflects that tradition. Today it is Italy's most visited monument, appears on the five-cent euro coin, and stands as shorthand for the city itself.