Tours to Italy

The Colosseum or Coliseum is one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Rome, Italy. Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum could seat up to 50, 000 spectators, making it the largest amphitheatre built in the Great Roman empire. Located adjacent to the world-famous Roman Forum, the construction of Colosseum was started by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD, and was completed by his son Titus in 80 AD. Dio Cassius, Roman historian and administrator has recounted in his works that over 10, 000 wild animals were killed in the one hundred days of opening celebration of this grand amphitheatre.

Though it survives only as a ruin today, the Colosseum still rates as one of the most fascinating examples of Roman architecture.

The massive Colosseum resembles a modern day football stadium, measuring over 160 feet in height, 600 feet in length and approx. 500 feet in width. It has four stories with eighty entrances at each of the first three levels, totaling 240. Its elliptical shape allowed spectators a close view of action. A 15 feet high wall separated the spectators from the bloody events in the arena. Thousands of spectators used to gather here to see events as gladiator fights, chariot races, mock naval battles and wild animal hunts, that were occasionally held at the Coliseum.

Sightseeing in Italy

Leaning Tower of Pisa Colosseum Duomo Pantheon Piazza San Marco Uffizi Gallery Florence Grand Canal Venice Vatican Museum Pompeii Tours