No monument says “ancient Rome” like the Colosseum. The Flavian Amphitheatre was begun under the emperor Vespasian and inaugurated by his son Titus in AD 80 with games that lasted a hundred days. Tens of thousands of spectators came here to watch gladiators, wild-animal hunts and public spectacles.
What to see
The stands
Walk around the tiers to understand the scale: the seating reflected Roman society, from the emperor and senators at the front to the common people at the top.
The arena
A partial floor has been rebuilt over the arena, so you can stand where the gladiators fought (special tickets).
The underground
Beneath the arena, the hypogeum was a maze of corridors, cages and lifts that raised animals and scenery into the arena (special tickets or guided tours).
The Forum and the Palatine
The standard ticket usually also covers the Roman Forum, the heart of political life in ancient Rome, and the Palatine Hill, where the emperors built their palaces – allow at least half a day for all three.
Tips
- Book online: tickets are timed and the best slots go early.
- Go first thing or late in the day to avoid the heat and the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water: there is little shade at the Forum.
- For the arena floor and the underground, book well ahead: places are limited.
