The Colosseum
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One of the most famous sights in the world and the very icon of Rome, The Colosseum is perhaps the best starting point for any itinerary of the city. Located at the heart of Ancient Rome, the structure has stood for almost 2,000 years and is arguably the grandest existing symbol of the former might of the Roman Empire. Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum took 10 years to build and its inauguration was celebrated by 100 continuous days of Games in 80 AD.
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Crowds of between 50,000 to 80,000 flocked to the arena to witness a variety of entertainment from gladiatorial contests to mock sea battles, public executions, animal hunts and theatrical productions.
Despite earthquakes, stone-thieves and a series of infamous sacks of the city, the Colosseum stands imperious to this day and despite much of the structure having fallen by the wayside over the years, its current, broken form makes for one of the most intoxicating of sights that simply cannot be missed. The fact that you can walk out of a modern underground Metro system and see a largely-intact, 2,000 year old stadium right in the heat of the city is really what characterises Rome and will suitably mark the start of your visit.
Despite earthquakes, stone-thieves and a series of infamous sacks of the city, the Colosseum stands imperious to this day and despite much of the structure having fallen by the wayside over the years, its current, broken form makes for one of the most intoxicating of sights that simply cannot be missed. The fact that you can walk out of a modern underground Metro system and see a largely-intact, 2,000 year old stadium right in the heat of the city is really what characterises Rome and will suitably mark the start of your visit.
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Opening-times:
January 1st - February 15th: 08:30 to 16:30 February 16th to March 15th: 08:30 to 17:00 March 16th to last Saturday of March: 08:30 to 17:30 Last Sunday of March to August 31st: 08:30 to 19:15 September 1st to September 30th: 08:30 to 19:00 October 1st to last Saturday of October: 08:30 to 18:30 December 25th, January 1st & May 1st: closed |
Prices:
Adults: €12 EU Citizens aged 18-25: €7.50 Children under 18: free entrance |
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Category: Monuments of Ancient Rome
Built: From 70 -80 AD To see: Historical remains of site Area: Ancient Rome Nearest Metro: Colosseo - Line B - 1 minute walk Close by: Arch of Constantine, Arch of Titus, The Roman Forum |
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