The Colosseum, or Coliseum, is located in the historical centre of Rome, in IV Templum Pacis (one of the 14 administrative regions established in ancient times). A landmark of extraordinary popularity, it is visited by millions of persons each year. If you are one of those tourists, below you will find useful information about this location.
Interesting to know about Colosseum:
Short History
The Colosseum is the greatest amphitheatre ever built by the Roman emperors and a proof of the geniality of roman architecture.
This extraordinary landmark was built by Vespasian and Titus between 70 and 80 AD and was intended “as a gift for the citizens of Rome. A new arena was needed as the previous one was too small. Intended for games, the Colosseum was capable of seating 50,000 spectators eager to see the gladiators fighting to death.
For four centuries and a half, the Colosseum served the purpose it was built for. It suffered many modifications and repairs. In 404, the last gladiator fight was held, while the hunts continued for 120 years more.
Eventually, the huge expenses necessary in order to maintain the Colosseum functioning could not be covered anymore, because of the financial crisis and of the invasions suffered by the Roman Empire. The taste of the public had changed anymore, so the Colosseum was eventually abandoned.
Colosseum Today
Centuries having passed, the Colosseum was badly damaged, both by earthquakes and people. Restoration projects were started in modern times, but none was actually concluded due to lack of funds.
However the monument will finally be restored apparently because, in January 2011 the following announcement was made:
“”The founder of Tod’s luxury leather and footwear will foot the euro 25 million ($34 million) bill to restore the ancient monument which is blackened by pollution and rocked by vibrations from a nearby subway line. Work will begin at the end of the year, and will take between two and two and a half years. The monument will remain open to tourists during the restoration.” (Associated Press, cited on the Colosseum.net –see source below).
Useful to know about the Colosseum:
Opening times:
8:30 am – 4:30 pm From November to February
8:30 am – 5:30 pm in March
8:30 am – 7:15pm from April To September
8:30 am – 6:30 pm in Octomber
Ticket Fees:
The full price f the ticket is €12. However, for European Union youngesters (18-24 years old) and teachers, the ticket is € 7, while European Union children (under 18) and senior citizens (above 65) enter for free.
Underground Re-openning
Starting with December 31 the Collosseum underground will be re–pened. However, after two other announcements of this kind (for the end of September and for the end of Octomber), you should not count on it.
English tourse are available at 9:40am, 12:20pm, 1pm, 3pm, and 4:20pm and you may book them at +390639967700.
Additional Informartion: Colosseum.net
Address: Piazza del Colosseo, ROMA
