Visiting the Colosseum in Rome
We all have this vision of a perfect vacation from time to time, and admit it – every once in a while, we think of visiting historic places just like the Colosseum in Rome – one of the world’s biggest attractions.
The Colosseum is hailed as the largest amphitheater in the world, making it an iconic landmark in the heart of Rome, visited by thousands of visitors in a day. It is also close to famous attractions such as the Roman Forum and Circo Maximus. You can either take the Hop On Hop Off Bus or take the taxi to reach the Colosseum.
To know more about the Colosseum, here are some fun facts we’ve gathered during our recent trip to Rome.
Interesting Facts about the Colosseum
It was built in 72 A.D and 80 A.D under Emperor Vespasian for his successor, Titus.
The Colosseum is built from stone and concrete by tens of thousands of slaves, so imagine how much blood and sweat are shed to create such magnificent landmarks like this.
It features 80 entrances and can accommodate up to 50,000 spectators. According to a tour guide, aside from the occasional sports and gladiatorial games held in the past, the Colosseum used to be an emperor’s brutal playground where they kill 10,000 animals in a single day.
Historians also mentioned that the Ancient Romans would flood the Colosseum and perform a mock-sea battle inside.
If you will be joining the group tour, depending on your type of ticket, you’ll get to roam around the Belvedere on the third, fourth and fifth levels where you’ll be offered with a different view of the arena.
Some of the things to check out inside include the Arena floor where most battles are slated.
Another interesting part of the arena is the area called the hypogeum; a two network of tunnels where the combatants and animals are being kept before they meet their unfortunate end. It is also said that it has 36 trap doors to support its special effects.
Rules and Tips Before Entering
To skip the long queue at the Colosseum ticket counter, you can buy your ticket online at their official website.
Like any other place, heavy luggage is prohibited inside. Selfie sticks are also banned. You can bring a bottle but make sure to empty them before entering, but no need to worry! There’s a fountain inside where you can fill up your bottle afterwards.
Since you’ll be walking and roaming the venue for an hour, it’s best to wear your most comfortable shoes, and a hat if you’re visiting on daytime.
Best time to visit
If you to avoid the overwhelming crowd, it is highly recommended you plan your visit during the low season months of November to February. But since it opens at 8:30 am, it’s also best if you head over an hour before it closes at 4:30 pm.
Since it may be pricey to get inside the Colosseum, you can check out the select day where entrance is free of charge. Before, the arena used to be free for public viewing every first Sunday of every month but it seems like there has been a change in their schedule. Check their official website for more information and updates.
Admission Fee:
Admission ticket costs 12 euro which includes entrance to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. The pass ticket is valid for 2 days, which will allow visitors to enter each of the 2 sites (Colosseum and Roman Forum/Palatine Hill).
Searching for best hotels and affordable flights? Check out our complete list of affordable hotels and resorts via Agoda or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
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Also read: 14 Secret And Unusual Rome Places That You Should Know
