Why the Colosseum of Rome is
special
The Colosseum of Rome is truly colossal - it stands 50
meters (165 feet) high and measures 185 meters (600 feet) long. It was large
enough to hold 50,000 roaring spectators when it was inaugurated in 80 AD.
Today, it is one of the most dramatic, historic and recognized archaeological
monuments on earth. The original Colosseum of Rome The animated
picture on the left depicts the wonder in its youth. I drew and superimposed its
awning over the Caen model. This illustrates how the Colosseum of Rome appeared
when its huge awning was temporarily mounted to shield spectators on raining and
hot sunny days.
Today's Colosseum of Rome
The wonder is in
a partially ruined state, but it is in remarkable condition when you consider it
was built nearly 2000 years ago.
Why the Colosseum was built The
Flavian Roman emperors built the Colosseum of Rome for entertaining their
subjects (and to distract their minds from the woes of the time). Among the
most popular "crowd pleasers" were bloody contests pitting gladiators against
gladiators and wild beasts. Even naval battles were staged in the Colosseum of
Rome (the arena's floor was flooded for those events). Non-martial events were
staged, too, including lavish theatrical productions and tamed animal
acts.
Popular misconceptions Hollywood movies reinforced some
widespread false impressions about the Colosseum of Rome. Historians doubt that
the wholesale martyring of Christians occurred there. And, the image of lions
eating the Christians before cheering crowds is likely fantasy. Films have
also bolstered the myth that thumbs down meant to kill the person in the arena.
It was just the opposite in Roman times. Thumbs up signaled "kill him" and
thumbs down, "spare him."
Correct spelling Which is correct,
"Colosseum," "Coliseum" or "Colloseum"? All are correct (though the first two
are more widely used),
My other Colosseum web pages I have two other
informative web pages on the Colosseum of Rome, the "interesting tidbit" page
and the "concise history" page. Click the below buttons to view
them: What leading travel books say about the Colosseum of
Rome The Colosseum is easily Rome's most awe-inspiring ancient
monument. Italy Rough Guides The Colosseum of Rome is a masterpiece
of the architecture of Antiquity. Italy Michelin Green Guides |