Colosseum

Construction of the Colosseum began in 72 AD under Emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD under his son Titus. It replaced earlier wooden amphitheaters. The financing of the construction largely came from the spoils of the Jewish War, including the gold treasure from the Temple of Jerusalem. Originally designed as a three-story building, a fourth, solid story was added under Titus. Its inauguration in 80 AD was celebrated with a hundred days of games, which included gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and simulated naval battles. For nearly 450 years, the Colosseum served as a venue for public spectacles until the games ceased in the 6th century. Subsequently, it was damaged by earthquakes and used as a quarry in the Middle Ages, until Pope Benedict XIV declared it a consecrated martyr site in the 18th century and ordered its preservation.

The Colosseum is located in the city of Rome, in the district of Rome, in the Lazio region of Italy, at an elevation of approximately 35 meters above sea level.

Today, the Colosseum is one of Rome's most visited tourist attractions. It can be visited. Every year on Good Friday evening, a Way of the Cross with the Pope takes place there.