The Colosseum: A complete guide

Are you planning a trip to Rome and wondering what to see? Look no further than the Colosseum, one of the most popular and iconic monuments in the city. This ancient amphitheatre leaves visitors speechless as they imagine the exciting gladiatorial contests and public shows that took place within its walls. In this guide, we will explore the history, best time to visit, and tips for experiencing the Colosseum to its fullest.

Quick Facts

• Location Piazza del Colosseo, Rome
• Best time to visit When it first opens at 8:30 am, the low season months of November to February (save for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day) or an hour before the Colosseum closes (as by this time the crowds have significantly thinned out).
• Opening hours 8:30 to 19:15 (April to August) and until 16:30 (during winter)
• Visit duration 3 hours (3.5 hours with the restricted underground areas)

History of the Colosseum

Construction on the Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, began in 72 AD under Emperor Vespasian. It was inaugurated 8 years later by Vespasian’s son, Titus, and completed two years later. The Colosseum could hold 50,000 – 80,000 people during the Roman Empire and served as Rome’s entertainment center for around 450 years. Gladiatorial contests and other events such as classical drama, sporting events, executions, hunts, and wild animal fights were held here. The fall of the Roman Empire and changing public tastes led to the end of the gladiatorial fights and other public shows by the 6th century. The Colosseum was then abandoned and its materials were used for other projects. In the 18th century, popes began to consider conserving the monument as a holy Christian site. Restoration efforts have been ongoing since the early 1900s.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Colosseum is when it first opens at 8:30 am or during the low season months of November to February (save for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day). Alternatively, visiting an hour before the Colosseum closes can also be a good option as the crowds have significantly thinned out.

Opening Hours

The Colosseum is open from 830 to 1915 from April to August and until 1630 during the winter months.

Visit Duration

A visit to the Colosseum typically lasts around 3 hours, and 3.5 hours with the restricted underground areas.

Events and Entertainment

Along with gladiatorial contests, the Colosseum also hosted a variety of other events during the Roman Empire. Anything that entertained the Emperor, the elites, and the common people was held here including classical drama, sporting events, executions, hunts, and wild animal fights.

Damage and Restoration

By the 6th century, the Colosseum had been damaged due to natural phenomena like earthquakes and lightning. In the centuries that followed, the arena was completely abandoned, and its materials were used to build many projects such as the Basilica of St. John Lateran, St. Peter’s Cathedral, the defence fortifications along River Tiber and the Palazzo Venezia. But starting in the early 18th century, popes began to consider conserving the monument as a holy Christian site. Although it should be noted that it is uncertain whether any early Christians had actually been killed in the Colosseum. By the 1900s, a combination of neglect, vandalism, weather, and natural disasters had damaged almost twothirds of the original building, including all of its marble seats and decor. Restoration efforts started in the same period and have continued since.

How to Get to the Colosseum

The Colosseum is easily accessible by public transport. The Colosseo metro station on the B line is located just next to the arena. Additionally, to the south of the Colosseum is the tram station known as Piazza del Colosseo, where you can take the tram lines number 3 and 8 to reach the Colosseum.

What to See and Do

When visiting the Colosseum, be sure to take a tour of the arena floor, where the gladiatorial contests and other events took place. You can also visit the underground areas, known as the hypogeum, where the gladiators and animals were held before their events. Additionally, you can take a walk around the top tier of the Colosseum for a panoramic view of the entire monument and the city of Rome.

Tips for Visiting

• Purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long lines
• Consider taking a guided tour for a more indepth understanding of the Colosseum’ s history
• Wear comfortable shoes as the Colosseum is a large monument and there is a lot of walking involved
• Be prepared for the crowds, especially during peak tourist season

Conclusion

A visit to the Colosseum is a mustdo for any trip to Rome. This ancient and aweinspiring piece of architecture transports visitors back to a time of Roman gladiators and crowds of cheering spectators. By understanding the history and planning your visit accordingly, you can fully experience the Colosseum and all it has to offer. Don’ t forget to book your luxury apartment on our website for the best trip ever!