7 FACTS ABOUT THE COLOSSEUM

The Colosseum is the symbol of the Eternal City, one of the most renowned monuments in the world
as well as being one of the world’s Seven Wonders. The Flavian amphitheatre represents an amazing
historical and archaeological treasure which, still today, is a constant reminder of the greatness of the
Roman Empire. Here are 7 curious facts about the Colosseum.

1) A 100 day-long inauguration party

Following the work which lasted almost three years, the Colosseum was inaugurated in 80 A.D. with a
series of events and shows that lasted for one hundred days. Gladiatorial combats, symbol of this
ancient arena, only ceased in 404 when a monk named Almacchio lost his life during the protest
demonstrations, which during Constantine’s Empire became frequent in the city.

2) Part of its walls have brought Roman buildings to life

For a certain period of time in history, the Flavian Amphitheatre was abandoned to its fate and
because of this, it was used as a primary source of raw materials. Some of its marble was in fact used
in many Roman constructions, such as Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Barberini Palace. For this reason,
besides the terrible earthquake which destroyed it in 851, the Colosseum became an archaeological
site which was very different from how it presented itself originally and it must be noted that some
historians believe at least one third of it is missing.

3) Garden with historical plants

Inside the Colosseum, amid its remains, some species of plants of various origin can be found. Some
botanic experts have succeeded in classifying 684 plants, some of which seem to have exotic origin
thanks to the presence of microclimates inside the amphitheater; but with the passing of time, the
number of plants present diminished drastically to 242.

4) Location for unique concerts

The Colosseum is certainly a dream place for artists aspiring to a unique performance in a location of
such cultural relevance; few though are those who succeed in this extraordinary enterprise. The first
Italian artist to perform at the Flavian Amphitheater in 2011 was Biagio Antonacci, Andrea Bocelli and
Nicola Piovani followed in his footsteps. Artists of International renown who had the opportunity to sing
surrounded by these historical arches are: Ray Charles, Elton John, Paul McCartney, Noa, Mercedes
Sosa and Khaled.

5) The Symbol of Death Penalty

The Colosseum has been chosen to support Awareness Campaigns on the Death penalty and for over
15 years it has been their protagonist with a very special illumination. It changes everytime someone is
saved from the death penalty somewhere in the world; in that moment the Colosseum can be admired
while changing color from golden to white.

6) The most visited monument in Italy

From a yearly survey carried out by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, during the past few years, the
Flavian Amphitheater has ranked first in the chart of the most visited monuments in Italy, with an
average of five million visitors. Pompei, the Uffizi gallery in Florence and the Accademia Galleries are
next on the list. Another Roman monument ranking among the first positions in the chart is Castel
Sant’Angelo, followed by the Egyptian Museum in Turin.

7) It used to be part of Hell

At the times of Gladiators, the Colosseum was known as the seventh door to access Hell, this
reputation was connected to the fact that many were those who died during the games which were
held inside it. Many legends narrate that the Flavian Amphitheater was used as a place for sacrificial
rites during which the blood of killed gladiators was used, and these were not isolated cases. Even
during Medieval times, it is said that some bandits used this place to bury their victims and that some
magicians would use herbs collected inside the Colosseum for their potions.