What Is the Arena in Rome Called?

By Anna Duncan

The arena in Rome is called the Colosseum. This magnificent structure has a rich history and is one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

The Colosseum – A Marvel of Ancient Engineering

Located in the heart of Rome, the Colosseum is an iconic symbol of ancient Roman civilization. Built between 70-80 AD, this grand amphitheater was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian and completed by his son, Titus. The Colosseum was primarily used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles.

The Architecture

Designed to accommodate up to 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum stands as a testament to ancient engineering prowess. Its elliptical shape measures 189 meters long, 156 meters wide, and reaches a height of 48 meters. The outer walls consist of three tiers adorned with arches and columns.

Underground Hypogeum

Beneath the arena floor lies an intricate network of tunnels and chambers known as the hypogeum. This underground area served as storage for props, cages for animals, and provided a hidden entrance for performers and gladiators.

The Spectacles

The Colosseum hosted various forms of entertainment throughout its history. Gladiatorial battles were perhaps the most popular events held here. These skilled fighters would engage in combat with each other or fierce animals like lions and bears.

  • Gladiator Fights: Gladiators were trained fighters who battled it out to entertain the crowd. They fought with various weapons such as swords, shields, and nets.
  • Animal Hunts: Exotic animals were brought from all corners of the Roman Empire for these hunts.

    The spectacle of watching hunters face off against ferocious beasts captivated the audience.

  • Mock Naval Battles: The arena could be flooded to recreate naval battles. Model ships would engage in combat, complete with soldiers mimicking the actions of real sailors.

The Colosseum Today

Despite facing centuries of neglect and damage from earthquakes, the Colosseum still stands as a remarkable testament to Roman engineering and ingenuity. It has become one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year.

If you ever get a chance to visit Rome, make sure to include the Colosseum in your itinerary. Walking through its grand arches and imagining the gladiators and spectators who once filled its seats is an awe-inspiring experience.

In conclusion, the arena in Rome is called the Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater is not only historically significant but also a marvel of architectural design. Its grandeur and rich history continue to captivate people from all over the world.