What is the Colosseum?
A tangible example of ancient human genius, the Colosseum was a Roman amphitheatre built in 72 AD at the behest of Emperor Vespasian. It could seat up to 65,000 people and was used for gladiator fights in antiquity. Today, it is the most popular tourist attraction in Rome, with about 6 million visitors every year. If you plan to visit Rome, be sure to include the Colosseum in your itinerary. Read on to find out what you can see inside during your visit.
Inside the Colosseum: the main attractions
Arena
The Colosseum was donated to the Roman people by Emperor Vespasian. When it was inaugurated, gladiator fights, animal games, executions of criminals and theatrical performances took place here annually. Representations of great historical battles were also held and forests were recreated to simulate hunting and naval games. The arena is where all the action took place, with many gladiators and war criminals finding their end here. Access to this area requires a special ticket that can be purchased online.
Underground
Emperor Vespasian died before completing the Colosseum. His son and successor, Titus, added the fourth floor, while Titus' brother Domitian built the balconies and underground tunnels called hypogea. This is where gladiators, war criminals and animals entered before entering the arena. Some historians suggest that the hypogeum was filled with water to simulate naval battles, although the walls were not watertight and there were several exits from which water could escape.
Trapdoors
The trapdoors, part of the Colosseum's underground tour, were used to cage wild animals such as bears, boars, wolves, lions and tigers, which were released into the arena to fight with gladiators and criminals. These were built by Domitian, brother of Titus, who constructed the entire hypogeum. Altogether, there were 36 trapdoors to house various wild animals.
First ring
The first ring of the Colosseum was reserved for the king, his family, councillors and nobles of ancient Rome during the annual games and ceremonies held in the Flavian amphitheatre. This was the closest point to the arena, decorated with Doric columns, and some seats were engraved with the names of those who occupied them. However, over time, the engravings have deteriorated.
Second ring
The second order was reserved for the wealthy class of ancient Rome. Today it houses an exhibition on the history of the Colosseum where you can learn more about the gladiator fights, the foundation of the amphitheatre and the different eras it went through. It is a must-see area to learn more about ancient Rome.
Third ring
Vespasian completed the three rings of the Colosseum before his death as a gift for the people of Rome. The third order was for the common people, who could watch the annual games from here. From the top you have a spectacular view of the interior of the Colosseum, with a clear view of the arena.
Gladiator Gate
As its name suggests, the Gladiators' Gate was the entrance used by gladiators to enter the arena. It is located above the hypogeum, where animals were kept for fighting. The Gladiators' Gate was not open to the public at the time, but today it is possible to enter and look out over the arena, imagining being greeted by the cheers of a cheering crowd.
Emperor's Trubuna
Vespasian designed the Colosseum together with architects, builders and engineers. It was built so that people could enter and exit in 15 minutes before and after the annual games, thanks to 76 entrances used by the people, 3 entrances reserved for the nobles and one reserved for the emperor's tribune. This space offers the best view of the arena and houses a cross laid by the Pope in the 16th century in honour of martyred Christians.
Can you get inside the Colosseum?
All areas of the Colosseum are accessible, but require specific entrance tickets
- The first ring, the hypogeum, the Gladiator's Gate and other underground tunnels require special tickets
- The second ring has a dedicated ticket that includes audio guides on the history of the Colosseum.
- The third ring has tour guides explaining the historical importance of the monument and gives access to the Eros Museum.
Most tickets also include a visit to the Palatine and the Roman Forum. It is advisable to buy tickets online to avoid long queues, as the Colosseum receives millions of visitors every year.
Advice for visitors
- Always buy tickets online, as the Colosseum is one of the most popular attractions in Rome and the wait for tickets on site can be long.
- For the most part, the Colosseum is wheelchair accessible, except in areas such as the Gladiator's Gate, where you may encounter difficulties. However, assistance is available.
- For a complete experience, book a guided tour to discover the history and significance of this extraordinary monument.
- It is forbidden to bring large luggage. You may bring a small backpack, which will be checked by security.
- It is forbidden to bring deodorant sprays, glass and plastic bottles.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take a guided tour inside the Colosseum?
Yes, there are guided tours that allow you to explore the Colosseum with the accompaniment of an expert guide who provides historical information and interesting anecdotes. You can book standard tours or more in-depth tours that also include the underground and the arena.
How big is the Colosseum?
The Colosseum measures approximately 189 metres long, 156 metres wide and reaches a height of 48 metres. With a capacity of about 65,000 spectators, it is one of the most impressive ancient structures in the world.
What are the must-see attractions inside the Colosseum?
The main attractions include the arena, the hypogeum (underground), the Gladiator's Gate, the various seating levels and the Emperor's Tribune, from which there is the best view of the entire arena.
What are the unique things I can see inside the Colosseum?
You can see ancient animal trap systems, the impressive hypogeum with its underground tunnels and some remains of the original architectural decorations. In addition, some seats on the upper levels offer panoramic views of Rome.
What can I do that is unique inside the Colosseum?
You can enter the arena through the Gladiator's Gate, explore the dungeons and experience the excitement of the games and fights that took place here. Guided tours often also include the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum.
Can I enter the Colosseum?
Yes, it is possible to visit the Colosseum, but some areas require special tickets, such as the arena, the dungeons and the Emperor's Tribune.
Is it free to enter the Colosseum?
No, admission to the Colosseum is not free. There are standard and special admission tickets for access to particular areas.
Why is there no floor inside the Colosseum?
The original floor was destroyed over time and today the hypogeum, the system of underground tunnels where animals and gladiators were kept before the fights, is visible.
How many people could enter the Colosseum?
The Colosseum could accommodate up to 65,000 spectators on its three levels.
Colosseum mon amour!
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