
Quite possibly one of the most impressive buildings of the Roman Empire , the Rome Colosseum is an incredible sight to see. Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheater, the colosseum today lies in ruins- though still has the ability to take the breath away from all that gaze upon it. Now that’s impressive! The Colosseum was opened in AD 80 by Vespasian’s son and successor, Titus. Given the scale of the enterprise it was built incredibly fast.The Colosseum is probably the most famous landmark in Rome. This great arena could seat 45,000 spectators and was the largest Roman amphitheater in the world.It hosted gladiatorial combats, and even spectacles with wild beasts! Throughout the Middle Ages, the Colosseum was believed to be a place of martyrdom and was therefore regarded as a sacred place. The Flavian Amphitheatre was damaged by fire and earthquake several times but was continually restored until the end of the 5th century. Romantic travelers of the 18th and 19th centuries were smitten with the great ruin of the Colosseum. Among these were Charles Dickens. Charles Dickens who loved the Colosseum so completely he wrote; “It is the most impressive, the most stately, the most solemn, grand, majestic, mournful sight, conceivable. Never in its bloodiest prime can the sight of the gigantic Colosseum, full and running over with the lustiest life, have moved one heart, as it must move all who look upon it now, a ruin. God be thanked: a ruin!”
If you are planning a trip to Rome, be sure to stop by the incredibly popular and terribly impressive colosseum. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
