Colosseum

The Colosseum was built between 72 A.D and 80 A.D. The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater in the world. This building had 80 entrances and could seat approximately 50,000 spectators who would come to watch sporting events and games. These events included gladiatorial combats, wild animal hunts and, believe it or not, ship naval battles! Most events were free and used by the emperors as a way to gain popularity and support from the public. Below the Colosseum were numerous rooms and underground passages. Here is where the animals and gladiators were kept, waiting to meet their fate in the arena above. There were also 36 trap doors in the arena for special effects! The velarium, an awning that could be pulled over the top of the seating area to provide shade, required skilled shipmen to handle. It was amazing to see this ancient wonder. The scale of the building was incredible.