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Colosseum
Last Updated: Jun. 14, 2008
by – Matt Vernick, Tour Manager, Europe
The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most famous symbols of not only Italy, but the world.
Recently voted as one of the 7 wonders of the world the official name for the Colosseum is the ‘Flavian Amphitheatre’ and it was finished in 72 AD.
Awesome to walk around the outside it’s even cooler to stand in the middle of and imagine what the atmosphere must have been like during the height of the Roman Empire when gladiators did battle while tens of thousands of Roman citizens were entertained by the spectacle.
A total ruin inside, you can’t actually walk where the floor or the Colosseum once was, but walking around the edge is cool enough and more than enough to give you a good perspective on the arena while you can still see the labyrinth of holding areas that were hidden below the floor of Rome’s most well known landmark.
Like most of the other major sights in Italy entry is a little overpriced but standing inside what is arguably the most famous arena ever is a memory that you’ll never forget.
Add a Comment Comments (2)
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The Colosseum was amazing, I agree that just standing inside and picturing the atmosphere, thousands of people watching and chanting, and Gladiators fighting is really amazing! I also thought that the labyrinth under where the floor was, is very spectacular, imagine where they kept the lions! Although there was so much violence that went with the Colosseum, it is SO amazing and a huge part of Roman history, as it was completed around 72AD, under Titus. Another interesting fact I learned from the Guided Imperial Tour was that all the different arch ways are entrances, of which there are 80 and each entrance and exit was numbered as was each staircase which led only to a certain section. Hence why it was so easy and quick for 80,000 people to find their seats.
I’m so happy that went to the Colosseum with Contiki and got to see this Ancient Landmark! Very amazing!
Explorer1113956
posted 18 days ago
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Be wary of gladiators outside the colosseum. They don’t take photos for free and can be quite agressive about their payment. Also don’t be fooled into taking an unlicensed guided tour of the Colosseum either. The lines move relatively fast. Rick Steve’s Rome book has a great tour and loads of information.
MJ
posted on Oct. 12, 2007
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