The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is one of Rome's most iconic monuments and a symbol of the greatness of the Roman Empire. Its construction began under Emperor Vespasian in 70 AD and was completed in 80 AD under his successor, Titus. The Colosseum was designed to host public events, such as gladiator fights, hunting shows, naval battles and theatrical performances.
The architecture of the Colosseum is an extraordinary example of Roman engineering. The structure is made of travertine, tuff and brick, and can hold up to 50,000 spectators. The elliptical shape of the amphitheatre, with its three rows of arcades, is characteristic of Roman design. The Colosseum not only served as a place of entertainment, but also as a symbol of Roman power and culture.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum suffered significant damage from earthquakes and looting, but remains an important tourist attraction and a site of historical interest, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the Colosseum is a symbol of Rome's resilience and history.