Italy, Rome - Ancient Amphitheater

Commissioned and built in the first century A.D. by the Emperor Vespasian, the Colosseum was opened in the year A.D. 80 by Vespasian's successor and son, the Emperor Titus, as the Flavian Amphitheater.

The Colosseum, Rome, Italy (2007)

For almost four centuries after its opening, the Colosseum was actively in use before it fell into neglect. Devastated by an earthquake in 1349, the entire outer south side of the Amphitheater's structure collapsed. Its stones were subsequently used as building materials for Rome's infrastructures including palaces and churches.

At its peak, the Colosseum could hold up to 80,000 spectators for public events including gladiatorial battles as well as animal hunts and fights. On the less gory side, the Colosseum was also used to stage dramas based on classical mythologies.

Today, the Colosseum lies in substantial ruins relative to its heydays. But it remains an iconic symbol of Rome in its imperial days and a major tourist attraction of today. It is visited by millions of tourists every year.

The Colosseum as seen from the outside, Rome, Italy (2007)

Exterior view of the Colosseum, Rome, Italy (2007)

View from within the Colosseum, Rome, Italy (2007)

Within the Colosseum, Rome, Italy (2007)

Interior view of the Colosseum, Rome, Italy (2007)