Colosseum What to see
Best of the Colosseum in Rome
1. Columns and Arches
Colosseum What to see | Each archway, in all the levels, is numbered. These numbers allowed spectators to find their seats. 76 archways served as entrances to the Colosseum. These were used by the public. The remaining four were reserved for entrances by important people- emperors, senators, and visiting dignitaries.
2. Flavian Amphitheatre Plaque
A plaque attached to the Colosseum facade shows the monument’s name as the Amphitheatre Flavium, indicating the Flavian dynasty that built it. This plaque can be seen on the wall of the Colosseum that faces the Temple of Venus.
3. The Cross
Colosseum What to see | A large wooden cross is erected in the interior of the Colosseum. It was placed there by Pope John Paul II in 2000 to commemorate all the Christian martyrs.
4. The Entry and Exit Gates
Colosseum What to see | The archway between 57 and 58 is called the Gate of Death or the Libitinarian Gate. It removed the dead and the not-so-victorious out of the arena. The archway between 19 and 20 had the Gate of Life. Gladiators entered the structure using this gate.
5. Arena
The Colosseum Arena had wooden panels and was covered by sand. While most of the flooring is lost, a part is visible. The arena was the ‘place of action’ or where gladiator and animal fights were held. Don’t miss the opportunity to get the feels of a battleground!
6. The Hypogeum | Colosseum What to see
Colosseum What to see | While the floor panels of the arena are now missing, you can see the walls of the hypogeum. This labyrinth of service corridors and cages offers a glimpse of where animals and gladiators were kept before their fights. This maze also had 36 trap doors to add special effects to performances. To experience the Hypogeum, ensure your ticket allows access to this part of the Colosseum.
7. Permanent Exhibition
Colosseum What to see
Archaeologists excavated man artifacts around the Colosseum. The second level of the Colosseum has these artifacts- cups and spoons, on display. These were used by vendors to serve spectators! Oyster shells and nutshells excavated from the site suggest Romans loved their fruits!
Colosseum What to see | Private Tours in Rome and the Colosseum do not hesitate to contact us.