One of the greatest works by Roman
architecture and engineering, Colosseum is
located in the center of the city of Rome. It was commisioned in AD 72 by Emperor
Vespasian, completed by his son, Titus, in 80, with later improvements by
Domitian. It’s also known as the Coliseum or Flavian Amphitheatre. It is the
largest amphitheatre in the world and was used for
100 days of games, gladiatorial contests, mock sea battles, animal hunts,
executions etc.
The elliptical building is immense, measuring 188m by 156m and reaching a
height of more than 48 meters (159 ft).
The Colosseum could hold, it is estimated, between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators
could enter with no less than 80 entrances. Just outside the Coliseum is the Arch
of Constantine (Arco di Costantino), a 25m high monument built in AD315 to mark
the victory of Constantine over Maxentius at Pons Milvius.
Two third of the Original Colosseum had
destroyed due to weather, natural disasters, neglect and vandalism. Though
Colosseum continues to be a leading attraction for tourists from all over the
world.
In 2007 the complex was included among the New 7 Wonders of the World, following
a competition organized by New Open World Corporation (NOWC).