Colosseum - Exterior

By far the largest of the Roman monuments, this quickly became the "Colossus" and therefore known as the Colosseum. Begun by emperor Vespasian in AD 70 it was finally inaugurated by his son Titus in AD 80 with a series of shows that lasted for 100 days. The pride of Rome, the Colosseum would hold up to 50,000 cheering citizens. As a final touch of grandeur (and pampering) the whole structure was eventually placed under cover with an enormous awning providing shade while viewing the blood-sports. The stench of death was appropriately covered with scents sprayed into the arena.

Hover mouse over the ARROW to "recover" into its former glory.

Humanities Resource of Mark Hunter