The Coliseum was the largest amphitheatre in Rome. The construction of the Coliseum started under the reign of Emperor Vespasian in around 70-70 AD and completed under the reign of Titus in 80 AD. The Coliseum was further customized and modified under the emperor Domitian. This was the first permanent amphitheatre to be built in Rome between the Esquiline, Caelian, and Palatine Hills.

An Iconic Symbol

The Coliseum is seen as an iconic symbol of imperial Rome. It held the capacity to accommodate about 50,000 spectators and has eight entrances. The amphitheatre is 50 meters high and 185 meters long. The Coliseum was built for gladiatorial contests and various public spectacles like, classical dramas, mock sea battles, and animal hunts till the early medieval period. Later, it was used for other purposes like a Christian shrine, a fortress, for housing, and for conducting workshops. Presently, the building has suffered damages as a result of earthquakes and the work stone robbers but it is still among the most famous tourist attractions in Rome and arguably the whole world.

Major Tourist Attraction

The Coliseum is known for its great works of architecture and engineering. It also reflects the grandeur and cruelty of the Roman World. The monument is famous for its grand size and the efficient organization of a large crowd viewing the different spectacles. This makes it one of the greatest works of the Roman period. Tourists from all over the world visit it. A museum is also built on the upper floor of the outer wall building, which is dedicated to Eros. The Coliseum also has a lift to the first floor. This makes the monument easily accessible to people with a handicap and children. Other facilities at the site are toilets, bookshop, and souvenir shops.

Tickets, Cards, and Passes

The tickets for the Coliseum can be bought at the site, online, or also booked through a telephone. The normal price of a ticket is 9 Euros (liable to change). The entry is free for EU citizens who are under-18 years and over 65 years. An archeologia-card is also available for 20 Euros, which is valid for a period 7 days for visiting 9 sites in Rome including the Coliseum. A Roma pass is also valid for a period of 3 days for visiting the Coliseum and other famous museums and archaeological sites of the city. The price of the ticket, card and pass may vary during Coliseum exhibitions. One can also book a guided tour conducted by professional guides.

How to get there

The Coliseum is located in the center of Rome. The monument can be reached using a bus, taxi, shuttle, trams or trains. It is located near Piazza Venezia and is close to the Forums. Another rapid form of transportation that you can use is the Metro. After reaching the Metro station, one can get a taxi parking and bike rental outside the station. On Sundays, bicycles and stroller are also allowed on roads as a means of transportation.

Best Time for Visiting
There are few months in a year, which are best suited for your Rome visit. These are –
1.    October- This is the best month of the year to visit. The temperature in this month is very pleasant.
2.    January- After the New Year, there is a gradual fall in the tourists visiting here. This is a suitable time for tourists who want to avoid crowds.
3.    Easter Week- This week may fall between mid-March or mid-April and the city is overcrowded with pilgrims and tourists.
4.    July and August- These are the peak months for tourist’s season. These seasons have comparatively less rain and are a bit humid.
The Coliseum was the only stone structured amphitheater built during the grandeur days of the Roman Empire.

Today, the Coliseum is partially in a ruined state but still remains one of the most renowned architectural monuments of the Roman period. The monument still holds the same brand integrity and respect after so many years of its construction.