HISTORY OF THE COLOSSEUM
The Colosseum has been standing in Rome for nearly two millennia. Well, at least one third of it has been standing. The other two thirds? We’ll get into that later. Construction started on the Colosseum in 72 AD and it was completed in 80 AD. A mere eight years to build such a sophisticated structure is truly remarkable. The Colosseum was conceived of and constructed during the reign of the Flavian Dynasty. This Dynasty consisted of the Emperor Vespasian and his two sons, Titus and Domitian, who ruled after him respectively. Originally named the Flavian Amphitheater, after this Dynasty, the nickname of Colosseum would come later.
The inauguration of the Colosseum was celebrated with 100 days of games that were free to the public and funded by the emperor. There were public executions, wild animal hunts and gladiatorial battles that brought to life the roaring crowds in attendance. Over time, as blood sport went out of fashion, the Colosseum was no longer host to the gladiators and emperors of the past. It served various purposes throughout the centuries and, ultimately today, is the iconic symbol of Rome that attracts millions of visitors per annum.
