by Janette Peel

Created on: January 25, 2010   Last Updated: March 22, 2012

The epicenter of the Roman world and acknowledgement to its less noble loves - the Colosseum - still stands as a symbol of an ancient civilization devoted to its own culture.

The most impressive monument in Rome, originally known as the Amphitheatrum Flavium, this architectural wonder continues to stand as the iconic symbol of barbaric Rome.  This mighty amphitheater saw thousands die at the will of the crowd.  A thumbs up from the emperor signified reprieve; thumbs down, death.  Famously where Christians were martyred and slaves led to their graves, the whole ethos centered on murderous intent.  Despite this, the building remains a majestic sight.

Commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD, this mighty structure was a gift created for the sole purpose of death and carnage to please the Roman lust for blood sports.  Sports continued well into the 6th century.  Capable of holding 55,000 people, the sheer passion and emotions of the crowd would have been intense, an experience similar to that of a modern-day football event.

The might Colosseum took 10 years to build on what was previously part of Nero’s Grand Palace, and formerly a lake.

Originally, the building had ornamental marble and travertine cladding inside and out.  However, these have been plundered and used for buildings across the city, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Palazzo della Cancellaria.  Though a shadow of its former glory, the intricate foundation, arches, ellipses and columns have stood the test of time, through earthquakes, wars and human interference.

Construction was precise, a triumph of engineering and a tribute to the original architectural genius, who to this day is unknown.  A staggering 48 meters high, 188 meters long and 156 meters wide, it is based on a strict architectural pattern, different from many other Roman buildings of that time, with an elliptical design, created especially for maximum spectator viewing capability.  This design is the blue print for stadiums and arenas worldwide to this day.

As with most ancient places, the Colosseum comes with an array of lore and legends.  It is thought the construction costs were paid for with the proceeds from looting King Herod’s great temple in Jerusalem.  There is no concrete evidence supporting this, but it is an exciting notion.

Reportedly, within the first 100 days of its opening, 9,000 people and animals were slaughtered.  Were the

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