The Colosseum
The Colosseum (Colosseo, built 72–80 AD) is the largest amphitheater ever constructed and the undisputed symbol of Rome. Up to 50,000 spectators watched gladiator fights, animal hunts, and mock sea battles here. The architecture is a marvel: four stories, 80 entrances, a sophisticated system of elevators and trapdoors underground (Hypogeum), and a sunshade (Velarium) operated by 1,000 sailors.
What you see
- The Arena: The combat area, under which lies the labyrinth of the Hypogeum — the corridors, cages, and elevators used to transport gladiators and animals into the arena.
- The Stands: Three levels, strictly ordered by social status — emperors and senators at the bottom, the people at the top. The seats bore names and numbers, like in a modern stadium.
- The Underground (Hypogeum): Accessible since 2021 (extra charge). Here you see the machinery behind the spectacle: elevators that catapulted lions into the arena, corridors through which gladiators met their fate.
Practical Information
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Admission | €16 (standard, incl. Forum + Palatine), €24 (with underground/arena), free on the first Sunday of the month |
| Opening Hours | Daily 9:00 AM–7:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (winter) |
| Waiting Time | 1–3 hours without reservation. Online booking is a must! |
| Duration | 1.5–2.5 hours |
| Metro | Colosseo (Line B) |
💡 Tipp
ALWAYS book your ticket online in advance and choose the earliest time slot (9:00 AM). At 9 AM, the Colosseum is still empty — by 10:30 it gets crowded. The combo ticket is also valid for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill — use it on the same or the next day.
