The Colosseum is one of the most famous monuments in the world. It is a symbol of Rome, a city that was once the centre of the world. The Colosseum is a reminder of the grandeur and power of the Roman Empire. It was built over two thousand years ago, and is still standing today.
The Colosseum was originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, and was built by the Emperor Vespasian between 70 and 80 AD. It was constructed to be used for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles, such as animal hunts and executions. It was built on the site of Nero’s Golden House, and was the largest amphitheatre in the world at the time. It was built from stone, brick and concrete, and was designed to hold up to 50,000 spectators.
Before
The Colosseum was a place of spectacle and entertainment for the citizens of Rome. It was used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts and executions. Gladiatorial contests were fights between two men, usually slaves or prisoners of war, in which one of the men would fight to the death. Animal hunts were similar to modern day circuses, in which exotic animals such as lions and tigers were pitted against each other, or against men. Executions were also carried out in the Colosseum, such as crucifixions and beheadings.
The Colosseum was also used for religious ceremonies, such as reenactments of mythological scenes. The Roman gods were often worshipped in the Colosseum, and the structure itself was a symbol of Roman power and influence. It was a place where the Roman elite could come and be entertained, and it was also a place of punishment and death.
After
The Colosseum fell into disrepair after the fall of the Roman Empire. It was damaged by earthquakes, fires, and vandalism, and eventually became a stone quarry. In the 17th century, the Colosseum was used as a fortress by the papal army. In the 18th century, the Colosseum was used as a bullring, and it was also used for plays and operas. In the 19th century, it was used as a residence for the poor, and as a warehouse for food storage.
The Colosseum was restored in the early 20th century, and it is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is a symbol of the grandeur and power of the Roman Empire. It is a reminder of the bloody past of Rome, and a testament to its resilience and strength.
Conclusion
The Colosseum is a symbol of the grandeur and power of the Roman Empire. It was built over two thousand years ago, and is still standing today. It was once used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts and executions, and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome. It is a reminder of the past, and a testament to the resilience and strength of Rome.
- Before – used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts and executions.
- After – damaged by earthquakes, fires, and vandalism, and eventually became a stone quarry. In the 18th century, it was used as a bullring, and it was also used for plays and operas.