Colosseum: the original
The term 'Colosseum' refers mainly to the Flavian amphitheatre in Rome, known as the Coliseum. However, there are several structures inspired by or nicknamed 'Colosseum' in the world, although they do not have the same origin or function as the original. Here are some examples:
Colosseum of Rome
The Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is the largest amphitheatre ever built in the Roman Empire. Built between 70 and 80 A.D., it could seat around 50,000 to 80,000 spectators.
It was used for over 500 years for public spectacles, such as gladiator fights, exotic animal hunts and even simulated naval battles. The name 'Colosseum' derives from the proximity of a colossal statue of Nero, some 30 metres high. Today, it is one of the most visited attractions in the world, with over 6 million tourists a year.
It was used for over 500 years for public spectacles, such as gladiator fights, exotic animal hunts and even simulated naval battles. The name 'Colosseum' derives from the proximity of a colossal statue of Nero, some 30 metres high. Today, it is one of the most visited attractions in the world, with over 6 million tourists a year.
Black' Colosseum of Catania
In Catania, there is a Roman amphitheatre that is nicknamed 'the black Colosseum' although it is less well known than the famous Colosseum in Rome. This name derives from the fact that the amphitheatre was built using lava stone from Mount Etna, which gives it a characteristic dark colour.
The Amphitheatre of Catania was built in the 2nd century B.C., during the Roman era, the Amphitheatre of Catania is the largest amphitheatre in ancient Rome, although much of it is still underground and not open for public viewing. It was able to seat about 15,000 people. The black Catania Colosseum was the second largest amphitheatre in Italy and its dimensions refer to a length of about 125 metres.
The amphitheatre was partly destroyed by an earthquake in the 17th century and the stones from it were used for the new building. Only a small portion of the structure is visible in Piazza Stesicoro, but excavations continue and the proportion of the 'Catanese Colosseum' should still be resolved.
Colosseum in Croatia
This Roman amphitheatre is located in the town of Pula on Croatia's Adriatic coast. Built in the 1st century, it is one of six Roman amphitheatres still in existence and is extraordinarily well preserved.
It could seat up to 23,000 spectators, and is the only Roman amphitheatre left with all four side towers intact. Today it hosts concerts and cultural festivals, keeping alive its tradition as an entertainment venue.
Colosseum in Tunisia
The Colosseum of El Jem, also called the Amphitheatre of Thysdrus, was built in the 3rd century and could hold up to 35,000 spectators. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest amphitheatres of the Roman Empire.
It is famous for its excellent preservation despite being used throughout history as a fortress. A scene from the film The gladiator was filmed right here, increasing tourist interest in the site.
Colosseum in France
The amphitheatre of Arles was built in 90 A.D. and could hold about 20,000 spectators. Although smaller than the Colosseum in Rome, it is still an important tourist attraction today.
Unlike the Colosseum in Rome, which fell into disuse in the Middle Ages, the amphitheatre in Arles was transformed into a fortified village with houses and two towers built within its walls. Today it hosts bullfights and concerts, making it a rare example of an amphitheatre still in use for live performances.
Colosseum United Kingdom
The London Coliseum was not a Roman amphitheatre, but a large performance building built in 1827. It was famous for its vast dome and was used for panoramic exhibitions, theatre performances and scientific demonstrations.
Its dome was so large that it is said it could hold an entire building. The Coliseum was demolished in 1874, but remains an interesting part of London's cultural history. Its legacy lives on in the stories of Victorian citizens who frequented the theatre to see the 'wonders of the world'.
These places, each with their own history, offer an insight into how widespread Roman culture was and how ancient architecture continues to fascinate and inspire places all over the world.
Colosseum mon amour!
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