Coliseum- Rome

The Colosseum , Rome Overview

Colosseum or Coliseum is an oval amphitheatre located in the centre of the city of Rome. Often known as the Flavian Amphitheater, the Colosseum is strategically built near the Roman Forum, making it one of the most remarkably popular attractions in the country, with over 6 million people visiting it each year. Needless to say that if you’re in Rome, you’re definitely going to see the Colosseum.

This attraction is the most recognizable symbols of the Roman Empire and has witnessed bloody battles and wild animal fighting. The trap doors and underground passageways are still easily accessible on this site as there now full-fledged staging areas for entertainment. Quite often referred to as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Colosseum is where the Pope makes an appearance every good Friday and leads the way of the Cross Procession. The name was changed from Flavian Amphitheater to the Colosseum because Nero statue was situated at the entrance of the Domus Aurea. Even though the securities at the Colosseum have heightened and only 3000 people can visit this place at once, it is still one of the must-visit places for anyone who steps foot in Rome.

Must Know Before You Visit The Colosseum

Entry Fee : Daily: 9 AM - 4.30 PM From 30 October to 28 February 2023
9 AM - 5.30 PM From 1 to 25 March 2023

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Entry details

This famous attraction is open on all days except on Christmas, 1st January and on 2nd June until 1:30 pm. It is open from 8:30 am until before sunset. As a result, the closing hours vary depending on the season. During the winter, the Colosseum closes at around 4:30 pm while in summer (from April to August), it shuts at around 7:15 pm. Entry to the Colosseum is euro 12 per person. This includes the entry to Roman Forum and Palatine Hill and is valid for 2 days. For European Union members (18-24 years), the cost is euro 7.50. As for children under the age of 18 and senior citizens, the entry is free. The entry to this attraction is also free on the first Sunday of the month.

History and architecture

The Colosseum was built over 2000 years ago. It was commissioned by the Roman Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian Dynasty. This was a gift from him to the Roman people and was known as the “Flavian Amphitheater”: a place open to the public for a number of executions, exotic animal trading, a recreation of battles and fights. Even today, the Colosseum is a symbol for all the fortunate and unfortunate events that took place here despite it being untouched for over 500 years.

The way that the Colosseum is built is quite strategic. The outer wall has an ovular shape, is 188 metres in length, 156 metres in width and 52 metres in height. It has an elliptical shape with an axe and stands on a base of two steps. Above that, there are three floors of arcades and the fourth storey with rectangular windows. It initially had around 80 Roman-numbered arches on each floor divided by half a column pillar. On the inside, there are three levels of masts. On the top level, there are 240 masts. Unfortunately, due to the quake in 1349, the entire south side collapsed. However, the original layers of the pilasters and arches in the Northside survived and is now seen as the “outer wall”.

Things to do

At the Colosseum, the best thing to do is take a tour. There are a number of guided tours that visitors can take. These are mainly packages consisting of skipping the line outside the Colosseum, a “three-in-one” tour which includes three attractions: The Colosseum, The Roman Forum and The Palatine Hill. There are also a few half-day and full-day tours that visitors can take, as per their convenience. Apart from the neighboring attractions such as the Arch of Constantine, Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli, Basilica di San Clemente, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum, The Colosseum is also surrounded by a number of eating joints as well as places to stay. Needless to say, you will find authentic Italian and Roman food here. However, the list doesn’t end here. Right from woodfire pizzas, to exotic pasta to breakfast restaurants, gelato restaurant, salads, fine dining, sandwiches, crafted beer, burgers, and fries, you will be surprised to see what all you can find around this ancient attraction. What’s more, there are a number of hotels, motels, and resorts that are in close proximity to the Colosseum. These include a combination of luxurious hotels with five-star services to simplistic home-stays. So, no matter what kind of holiday you’ve planned. You will be able to find something of your choice near this world-famous attraction.

Facts and Tips

Avoid the line by buying a guided tour.
If you buy a skip the line tour, you can save yourself some time.
Buy the tickets online, you may get discounts.
Try to get there before 8:30 am so that you do not have to wait in a queue.
The Colosseum looks the best at night. Try to stay till you see this view.
Use the metro to get here and then back.
If you buy a Roma Pass, you can get a good discount on Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum.
Keep an eye on your belongings. There is a rush here and pickpocketing is quite common here.