History Of The Roman Colosseum
The Roman Colosseum was earlier known as the Flavian Amphitheater. It is an oval-shaped amphitheater situated east of the Roman Forum. It was located in the middle of Rome. It is very magnificent and one of the best specimens of Roman architecture and engineering. Its construction began in 70-72 AD during the time of Emperor Vespasian and was finished in 80 AD when Titus was the emperor. |
It underwent many alterations during Domitian’s regime in 81-96 AD. He was responsible for building a network of tunnels to hold slaves and animals. This network was called hypogeum. A gallery was also included at the top to increase the number of people who could be seated in the Colosseum. Its name Amphitheatrum Flavium originated from the family names of both Vespasian and Titus.
It was built on flat ground in the valley located between the hills of Caelian, Esquiline and Palatine. This valley was cut and canalized by a rivulet. The area was ruined by the Great Fire of Rome which occurred during 64 AD. It was during this time that Nero captured the city and established a grand Domus Aurea on this location and developed a man-made lake encircled by pavilions, gardens and entrances in the front. A huge statue of Nero made from bronze was erected close to the doorway of the Domus Aurea.
Then, most of the Domus Aurea was shattered by Vespasian, conserving the Colossus and the lake was filled up to create land to build the new Flavian Amphitheater. The words inscribed on the site mean "The Emperor Vespasian ordered this new amphitheater to be erected from his general’s share of the booty". The construction of the Colosseum on the spot of Nero’s lake can be taken as a populist symbol of celebrating their victory. It was damaged several times due to fire, lightening, and earthquake and underwent repairs.
In the medieval period, the Colosseum saw many changes: a church was built in the 6th century and the field was turned into a cemetery. The Frangipani family controlled the Colosseum and used it as a castle. It was severely damaged in a powerful earthquake in 1349. In the modern times, it was restored by popes as a sacred site. Though today it stands in a somewhat dilapidated condition caused by massive earthquakes and robbers, the Colosseum is an icon that represents the Roman Empire.
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