The Colosseum is one of the most iconic monuments in the world, and it has been a popular tourist destination for centuries. But what lies beneath the Colosseum? This article will explore the secrets of the Colosseum’s subterranean depths, uncovering the history and secrets that lie below the grand monument.
History of the Colosseum
The Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commissioned in 72 AD by the Roman Emperor Vespasian and completed in 80 AD. It was built to host gladiatorial games, mock sea battles, and other public spectacles, such as executions. The Colosseum was capable of seating up to 50,000 spectators, and it was the largest amphitheater ever built in the Roman Empire. Over the centuries, the Colosseum has undergone extensive renovations and restorations, and it remains one of the most iconic structures in the world.
What Lies Below the Colosseum?
Beneath the Colosseum lies a complex system of tunnels, chambers, and passageways known as the hypogeum. The hypogeum was used to store gladiatorial equipment and wild animals, as well as to prepare the gladiators and animals for the games. It is believed that the hypogeum was also used to house prisoners before they were executed in the Colosseum. The hypogeum is composed of four main levels, with various chambers and tunnels on each level.
Level One
The first level of the hypogeum is the spoliarium, where the bodies of dead gladiators were stored. It was also used to store the wild animals used in the games. This level also contained a chamber where gladiators and animals were prepared for the games.
Level Two
The second level of the hypogeum contained two chambers, the cryptoporticus and the pulvinar. The cryptoporticus was used to store equipment and supplies, while the pulvinar was used as a dressing room for gladiators and wild animals.
Level Three
The third level of the hypogeum contained a chamber known as the cuniculus, which was used as a passageway to transport prisoners and wild animals to the Colosseum. This level also contained a chamber known as the labyrinth, which was used to house prisoners before they were executed in the Colosseum.
Level Four
The fourth level of the hypogeum contained a chamber known as the sarcophagus, which was used to store the bodies of dead gladiators and animals. This level also contained several other chambers, such as the piscina, which was used to store water for the wild animals, and the carcer, which was used to house prisoners before they were executed in the Colosseum.
Conclusion
The hypogeum of the Colosseum is a complex and fascinating structure that has been hiding beneath the grand monument for centuries. It is filled with secrets and stories, and it provides an interesting insight into the history of the Colosseum and the Roman Empire. It is a must-see for any visitor to Rome, and a great way to explore the history and secrets of the Colosseum.
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