Colosseo (Colosseum), Rome (must see)

The Colosseum is one of the grandest monuments to have stood the test of time and probably the most visited ruins in the world. The works on this colossal structure began in 72 AD and took 8 years to complete. The official opening of the venue was marked with gladiator games that lasted 100 days.

The Colosseum amphitheater comprised four tiers that could hold up to 50,000 spectators. The lowest tier was for the emperor and the royal family; the two middle ones were for Roman citizens and members of government, while the highest tier was for the plebs. Below-ground passages were used for bringing men and animals into the arena that was separated from the audience by a ditch.

The amphitheater mainly hosted three types of shows: wild animal fights, public executions and, of course, gladiator battles. Spectacles at the Colosseum could last for days. Admission was free and the main sponsor was the Emperor himself. Despite popular belief that the early Christians were martyred here in numbers, records reveal that it was very unlikely so.

At some point, during the 18th century, the Colosseum served as a fortress and then simply became a stone quarry for other construction projects. Passers-by habitually chipped off pieces of the Colosseum for souvenirs which, together with some natural causes like earthquakes, led to its partial destruction. Today, only the north side of the building remains, as well as the underground passages.

The arena floor is totally gone, and it is possible to access the subterranean part of the Colosseum, as well as its 3rd floor, on pre-booked tours only. The floors that are open to visitors without a special ticket are the ground and first floors. Inside the Colosseum, there's a historical exhibition with both permanent and changing displays.

Tips:
For a more convenient experience, visit either early in the morning or late in the evening. The queues during the middle of the day tend to be chaotic, and the heat can make standing around uncomfortable. If you're unable to arrive early but still wish to avoid the queues, consider opting for a guided tour by paying a slightly higher fee. This way, you'll not only skip the lines but also gain access to the Forum area. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased in advance or at the Roman Forum itself, where the queues are considerably shorter.
To enhance your visit, it's advisable to acquire an audio guide, providing detailed information about the layout and historical events that took place at different locations within the Forum.