What are 5 facts about the Colosseum

1. It Was Built 2000 Years Ago

It's been two millennia since the Colosseum was built, yet it is a new build compared to the pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge. It's hard to believe that the Roman Colosseum was built 2000 years ago. Its construction began in 72 AD under the rule of Emperor Vespasian and was completed eight years later in 80 AD under the rule of his son Titus. 

Much like the sports stadiums today, the Colosseum can hold around 50,000 to 80,000 spectators. One of the most amazing facts about the Colosseum is that it was built entirely by hand. Modern machines didn't exist. Stone, concrete, and highly impressive skills were used to create the structure that is standing the test of time.

Want to see it for yourself? Explore the Colosseum in Rome and admire the ancient marvel up close.

2. A Gladiator Combat Zone

One of the most interesting facts about the Colosseum is how the Romans used it. The Colosseum was built for entertainment, where gladiators fought each other or wild animals like lions, bears, and elephants. These battles were often deadly. 

The Romans had a thing for drama, and the Colosseum was their ultimate stage for action and excitement. The Colosseum also hosted mock naval battles. Even emperors wanted to get in on gladiator combat. If you're someone who loves fun facts about the Roman Colosseum, then this fact shows how bold Roman entertainment was.

Make the most of your visit with a Colosseum Ticket & Digital Audio Guide to experience the authentic stories behind the stones

3. The Colosseum Was Built With Hidden Trapdoors and Elevators

The Colosseum was more high-tech than you'd think. This is one of the cool facts about the Colosseum. The arena had an underground area called the hypogeum. It included trapdoors for surprise entrances, elevators to raise animals or props, and tunnels for gladiators and staff to move around unseen. 
 

Since the Romans loved thrills, this setup allowed surprising the audience with the unexpected. A lion would pop out of the floor, or a chariot would race across the sand. The setup makes the Colosseum unique because it was way ahead of its time. Another interesting fact about the Colosseum is that it has 80 entrances!

Want to learn more? Try the Palatine Hill Audio Tour right next to the Colosseum for more hidden Roman secrets.

4. Earthquakes Have Damaged It

Most photos show one side of the Colosseum missing. That's because several heavy earthquakes have caused part of the Colosseum to collapse. The earthquakes that occurred in 443 AD and 1394 AD damaged it the most. People also removed large stones to build other buildings in the city. 
 

Yet, what remains of the Colosseum is still very impressive. Over time, it has become a symbol of strength, survival, and human achievement. The structure is continuously being preserved for future generations. Learning these facts about the Colosseum helps people appreciate the time and effort it takes to maintain such an old treasure.

Dive deeper into the complete history of the Colosseum and see how it evolved over 2,000 years.
 

5. It Is One of the New 7 Wonders of the World

The Colosseum was officially named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. Over 100 million people voted. It's totally worthy of the title because of its massive size, brilliant design, and incredibly rich history. It's not just a Roman ruin. It's an iconic landmark. Millions of tourists every year visit the place, walk through the arches, explore its tunnels, and learn more facts about the Colosseum through guided tours, signs, and exhibits. 
 

A Colosseum tour guide can help you get around, show you the best views and historical spots, and lesser-known areas most tourists don't know about.

Why These Facts Matter to You

These facts make your trip more exciting. They help visitors look beyond the stone and start picturing the crowds, the battles, and the grand entrances. You'll feel the energy and history that has faded somewhere inside those walls. And if you're not visiting yet, these facts tell you more about Roman life, their architecture, and their culture.

Experience the Colosseum Yourself

Your trip to Italy should not skip this iconic landmark. Book your ticket early and get ready for the experience of a lifetime. One of the best things about Rome is that every corner is part of some exciting piece of history. You can go beyond and explore nearby spots like the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. 

Here's what you need to do next for an easy trip to the Colosseum:

• Make advance reservations.
• Book a Colosseum tour guide. They offer audio and live guided tours.
• Don't forget to visit the hypogeum and upper levels.
• Enjoy every moment to the fullest.

If you want to know more about Roman life, there are some great documentaries you can watch and books you can read. Virtual tours are the best because they bring these facts about the Colosseum to life.

Final Recap

Let’s wrap up the five facts about the Colosseum you know now:

• The Colosseum in Rome was built 2,000 years ago. It was built using ancient tools and techniques.
• It was a gladiator combat zone, a place for wild animal fights, and even mock sea battles.
• It was ahead of its time. Trapdoors, underground tunnels, and elevators were part of architectural design.
• It was damaged because of heavy earthquakes and human use, but still stands today and for future generations.
• It's one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Knowing these interesting facts about the Colosseum connects you to the past in a meaningful way.