The Colosseum is an iconic elliptical amphitheater in Rome, Italy, just east of the Roman Forum. It is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built and is still the largest standing in the world today. It was used to host grand spectacles like gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, executions, and re-enactments of famous battles that captivated the Roman public. For a first-time visitor, it’s always hard to figure out what to see while visiting the Colosseum.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to 10 major highlights and things to see inside the Roman Colosseum that will make your visit memorable.
Colosseum Outer Wall
The outer wall is often the first sight visitors get of the Colosseum. Standing 157 ft (48 m) tall, it is an impressive example of ancient Roman engineering and design, built using travertine limestone sourced from quarries around Italy. Parts of the outer wall’s crumbling, weathered state highlight the Colosseum’s age and the damage it has endured over nearly 2,000 years.
For tourists visiting the Colosseum, striking a photo opportunity in front of the famous outer wall is a must. These photos make for cherished memories and cliché but classic souvenirs. Also, seeing the outer wall helps set the stage for the rest of your Colosseum visit. Before stepping inside, it provides context for this ancient amphitheater’s sheer scale and grandeur.
The Gate of Death
The Gate of Death, or Libitinarian Gate, was crucial at the Colosseum because defeated gladiators and animals were taken out after battles. This gate held significant meaning on the western side as it led directly to the arena. Named after the goddess Libitina, associated with funerals, it symbolizes the end of gladiatorial contests.
Even though tours currently don’t include access due to temporary closure, understanding its historical role adds depth to your Colosseum visit. It’s a reminder of the gladiators’ sacrifices and the ancient Roman customs surrounding life and death, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Arch of Constantine
Standing proudly near the Colosseum’s outer wall, the Arch of Constantine is a must-see for any visitor interested in Roman history and art. This impressive structure adds another layer of grandeur to your Colosseum exploration. The Arch of Constantine was erected in 315 AD to commemorate Emperor Constantine’s victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD.
It is the largest and best-preserved triumphal arch from ancient Rome, providing insight into the architecture and decorative styles of the time. The Arch of Constantine provides a great photo backdrop, especially when combined with the Colosseum in the frame.
The Underground Chambers (hypogeum)
The Colosseum’s hypogeum is a vast network directly beneath the arena floor of the Colosseum. It was an intricate network of underground tunnels and chambers that housed animals, gladiators, and stage equipment. Gladiators and other performers waited and prepared in the underground tunnels and chambers before being raised into the arena.
Visitors with standard entry tickets are usually restricted to the area, but you can access it with a special underground access ticket. Understanding the Hypogea is essential to appreciating the complex logistics behind the gladiatorial spectacles and public events in the Colosseum.
Cevea (Seatings)
The Cavea, also known as the seating area, is a must-see element at the Rome Colosseum. It is a multi-tier seating system where Roman citizens of all classes once watched gladiatorial combats, animal hunts, and other spectacles. The Cavea is a complex seating structure divided into three distinct tiers, each farther from the Arena Floor, the Lower tier being the closest.
The tiers were not simply stacked on top of each other but rather sloped inwards, ensuring everyone had a decent view of the action below. It’s something you cannot miss, whether on an individual or a guided tour.
Arena Floor
The Colosseum’s arena floor, where gladiatorial combats, animal hunts, and public executions once took place, is a must-see on any visit to this iconic landmark. The arena floor is a large oval space located at the heart of the Colosseum. It measures approximately 83 meters (272 ft) long and 48 meters (157 ft) wide.
This central area served as the platform for all the action and drama that captivated Roman audiences. The view from the arena floor looking up at the towering walls is unlike any other perspective of the Colosseum. Walking on the partially reconstructed arena floor lets you imagine the spectacles here with gladiators fighting to the death as 50,000 spectators watched.
Remember, to access this area, you need a separate Arena access ticket.
Gladiator Gate (Stern Gate)
While the Colosseum’s main entrance is the most familiar sight, the Gladiator’s Gate (also known as the Stern Gate) offers a unique and historically significant point of entry on the outer wall. This northern gate, located on the shorter axis of the elliptical structure, was not intended for the general public. The Gladiator’s Gate was a crucial entry point for those participating in the Colosseum’s spectacles. Standing near it allows you to visualize the preparation and movement of gladiators before their fights.
Some guided tours might offer specific information and stories about the Gladiator’s Gate, enriching your understanding of this historical entry point.
The Cross
The large cross stands prominently on the external wall of the Colosseum, facing towards the Palatine Hill. It was erected in 1749 by Pope Benedict XIV to commemorate the early Christians believed to have been martyred in the arena. The Colosseum’s cross, however, reminds us to approach our issues from God’s eternal perspective.
The Emperor’s Box
The Emperor’s Box, also known as the “Cubiculum,” is situated on the south side of the Colosseum, directly opposite the main entrance (Porta Triumphalis). It was a reserved seating area for the emperor, his family, and distinguished guests. Constructed on a raised platform with four marble steps, it offered an unobstructed view of the entire arena, allowing the emperor to witness the spectacles in comfort and luxury.
While the original decorations and furnishings haven’t survived, the box’s location and elevated position speak volumes about the hierarchical nature of Roman society. Unfortunately, visitors cannot enter the Emperor’s Box itself. However, you can get a good view of its location. The best way to see the Emperor’s Box is from the opposite side of the arena floor (north side). This vantage point allows you to appreciate its elevated position and overall structure.
The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
While not directly inside the Colosseum, visiting the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which are right next to it, adds a complete dimension to your experience. Roman Forum is a large archeological site that exhibits the remains of government buildings, basilicas, and temples once the hub of Roman public life.
Palatine Hill is one of Rome’s seven hills that rises above the Forum. It was the historical center of power, where emperors resided in lavish palaces. Tourists generally find exploring the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill alongside the Colosseum to be a rewarding experience.
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