The Colosseum

The Colosseo, built in AD 80, was an arena for gladiator contests and public spectacles. The Flavian Amphitheater, its actual real name was built to hold and estimated 80,000 cheering fans.

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The Exterior. The Romans pioneered the use of arches. They stacked stone blocks without mortar into the shape of the arch, which as temporarily supported by wooden scaffolding. Lastly, a keystone was wedged into the top of the arch, it not only kept the arch from falling, but was able to support many times its weight. The second level arches were adorned with Greek statues. Today, only one third of the original Colosseum stands. Earthquakes destroyed some, but most was carted off as easy precut stone for other Middle Age and Renaissance buildings.

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The Interior. We entered at what I think of as the "50 yard line". We could see the underground passages beneath the "playing" surface. Wild animals were housed in these catacombs. Like the arenas of today, the seats were built on a slant upwards. Originally, the brick seats were covered in plaster, or even marble. During inclining weather, a enormous canvas awning would be hoisted by sailors to provide protection-- the first domed stadium in history. The Colosseum was inaugurated in a 100 day festival, which was attended by citizens from across the Empire. It is said that in access of 5,000 animals were killed in the games. The stench of the kill was masked by perfume. Ave, Cesare! (Hail Caesar)