The Colosseum, an uber-iconic landmark, is an undying symbol of ancient Rome’s grandeur and architecture. But beyond its massive stone arches and historic ruins, this ancient arena holds secrets that might surprise you. Let’s dive in.
The Flavian Amphitheater for You
Interestingly enough, the Colosseum wasn’t the Colosseum’s OG name! Back in the days of the Flavian Dynasty, whose emperors built it, it was called the Flavian Amphitheater. Good to know.
Biggest Amphitheater Ever
The Colosseum is by far one of the most well-known amphitheaters in the world, but did you know it’s also the largest? This huge venue could seat up to 80,000 visitors and used to host a range of (rather violent) events, from animal hunts and gladiator battles to public executions. Well, thankfully, those days are over.
Christian Symbol
Over time, the Colosseum became a major Christian symbol, with multiple early Christians martyred there. In fact, a Way of the Cross procession has been held in the Colosseum on Good Friday every year for nearly 20 years now.
Who Built It?
A rather unknown not-so-fun fact about the Colosseum is that it was mainly built by Jewish slaves. Tens of thousands of them, actually. Those slaves were brought to Rome by Emperor Vespasian, and it took them nearly a decade to build the Colosseum, which was finally completed in 80 AD.
