Also referred to as Flavian Amphitheatre, Colosseum is an iconic landmark in Rome. Nesting in the heart of the city, this oval-shaped structure was established in AD 80. It showcases a stunning architecture that the Romans were known for back in the day. Made primarily of travertine limestone, concrete, and volcanic rock, Colosseum is an architectural masterpiece. In the past, this three-level structure served as the venue for gladiator games, which the Roman emperors, their families, and a multitude of people attend. Surely, if you are planning to visit the captivating city of Rome anytime soon, Colosseum should be included in your well-curated itinerary. For your convenience, here is a guide to Colosseum, Rome. Feel free to browse below.
Tip from tour guide
A fun fact about Colosseum is that, despite its size, it was not named after its colossal magnitude. Instead, the inspiration came from the great statue of Emperor Nero, known as "The Colossus of Nero," that was located at the entrance of the Domus Aurea. This connection led to the renaming of the amphitheater as the Colosseum.
1. Things to do / Highlights
Considered the most visited monument in Italy, Colosseum is a breathtaking structure that will transport you back to olden times. Build 2,000 years ago, during the time of emperors and gladiators, it has been a symbol of Roman history, influence, and culture. When you get inside, you will be overwhelmed with its vast size. Every crack on the wall and damaged flooring tells a story that dates back a long time ago.
Explore Colosseum
Colosseum is a vast oval-shaped amphitheater that has been standing for centuries. It is believed that in the past, roughly 50,000 spectators were able to fit in this ancient battleground. The first thing you should do is explore and scrutinize every detail of it. If you are on a tour, your guide will tell you tales and trivia about the ancient times, especially how those events flowed. From the audience area to the battle arena, you’ll be able to picture out how the games worked back then.
Learn about ancient architecture
As you roam in Colosseum, your tour guide will brief you about the rules of the games. On top of that, you will be able to learn about this iconic structure’s history, especially its architecture. By examining the walls, you’ll realize what it’s made of—and how it was built. Aside from brick-faced concrete, tufa and travertine were utilized in the creation of Colosseum. Truth be told, those materials strengthen the foundation of this structure, enabling it to stand the test of time.
Check out the trapdoors
Since Colosseum was originally a battleground and a game facility, it’s no wonder that it has hidden rooms and trapdoors that added challenge for the gladiators. In total, there are 36 trapdoors in the arena, and each one was utilized for special effects and added risk during such barbaric times.
Tip from tour guide
Summer nights mean summer music concerts outdoors, and when you’re in Rome, that can mean a concert with a view of the Colosseum. If you're lucky, you might catch Central Winds Jazz Ensemble perform at Alexanderplatz right in front of the Colosseum.
Also don't miss the underground area of the Colosseum - half the story is hidden there! Stroll through the tunnels and chambers where gladiators and wild animals used to be kept before they could go up to face the 70,000+ screaming spectators in the open-air arena.
2. Things to buy
Colosseum houses a little souvenir store where guests can buy items to remember their tour experience with.
Colosseum figurines
If you are the type who likes purchasing delightful souvenir items every time you visit fascinating cities, landmarks, and remarkable places, you should mark your Colosseum tour by buying some lovely Colosseum figurines. These souvenir items are small replicas of Colisseum, and they are made from marble dust.
Books
Whether you are a hardcore bookworm or someone who just likes to know more about the history of Colisseum, you might be interested in buying an informative book about it. The on-site gift store sells books aside from touristy trinkets.
3. Travel tips
Here are some important notes that you have to remember before going on an exciting tour inside Colosseum.
Restriction on bags
The management of Colosseum is very strict with its security. The fact that it’s been existing for centuries now, they wouldn’t want it to be damaged by human error. The structure has been through enough because of natural disasters. Due to this, huge backpacks, suspicious bulky bags, trolleys, and camping bags are not allowed inside the property. Smaller ones are subjected to a thorough inspection.
Arrive 30 minutes early
Because of the long queue, as the guards thoroughly inspect bags, visitors are asked to arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled visit. Colosseum allows a maximum of 3,000 guests only, so you should pre-book to be included in the count.
Wheelchair accessible
People in wheelchairs are invited to visit Colosseum as most parts are accessible for them too.
4. How to get there
Colosseum nests right in the heart of Rome, and it can be easily located. It is within a short distance from Forum and the bustling Pizza Venezia.
Via train
If you are on a tight budget, you can always take the train. From any point in the city, hop on a train with the marking “Line B” as it is bound to drop you off at Rome Metro’s Colosseo station.
Tram
Do you prefer the tram over the train? If so, take tramway line #3.
Rent a bike
Interestingly, another cool way to explore Rome and get to your destinations is by riding a bike. This way, you can move from one point to another while at the same time marveling at the views. There are lots of bike-rental businesses in the city. Outside the Metro’s Colosseo station, you’ll find fantastic bike rentals.
Hail a cab
Just like most highly urbanized cities in the world, Rome is well-trafficked with taxis, and they are extremely popular with tourists most especially.
5. How to book tickets (from USD 95.09)
The most convenient way to book tickets for your Colosseum visit is through its official ticket-purchase link. There, you can pick whether to purchase a single ticket or group tickets.
Also, you can book on-site, but if you plan to do so, be sure to arrive during office hours. Colosseum’s ticket office closes an hour prior to the attraction’s closing time. Plus, it is advisable that you buy tickets a day before your intended visit.
Aside from the official ticketing link and on-site purchase, you can check out third-party websites that offer skip-the-line tickets and fantastic tour packages.
Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Ticket in Rome
Colosseum information (from USD 62.0)
Colosseum
Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Website: Colosseum
Tourism board: Visit Rome
Opening hours: 8:30am - 7pm (daily)
Price: From 25 USD
Priority Access Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour
Duration: 3 hour
History
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