The Importance of the Flavian Amphitheatre

Secret trap door to let animals into the Colosseum

The Flavian Amphitheatre, more commonly known as the Colosseum, was one of many amphitheaters throughout the Roman Empire, in fact, it's the largest. Construction was started by Vespasian and finished by Titus in 70-80 AD as a means of entertainment; it is one of the most iconic buildings in all of Rome. The nickname Colosseum, or Coliseum, derives either from a colossal statue of the emperor Nero that once stood nearby which, according to the ancient historian Suetonius, was over 35 meters high (120 ft.); or from the colossal dimensions of the building itself. The Colosseum stands below the slopes of the Oppian hill in a marshy valley encircled by the Caelian, Esquiline, and Palatine hills. The Colosseum was a much needed amphitheater since the most important amphitheater was the wooden structure built in 30 BC by Satilius Taurus on the Campus Martius, which was destroyed in the terrible fire of 64 AD. During the opening ceremony of the Colosseum put on by Emperor Titus, over 5,000 animals were killed in a span of 100 days. Not surprisingly, due to the Romans, there are certain species of animals extinct in Northern Africa. Situated only a short distance away from the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine put in place in 315 AD, is located. The Colosseum is among the most famous buildings still standing from Ancient Roman time and is one of the largest tourist attractions. The Colosseum was used to distract many ancient pauper citizens during crisis and used to help during times of celebration. The Colosseum, able to accommodate around 50,000 people, was an ideal setting for large entertainment and was also used to help gain leverage in political campaigns. By gaining the favor of the general public by putting on free gladiatorial events, politicians could win over many votes.