The Colosseum or Coliseum is an elliptical amphitheatre in the centre of the city of Rome, Italy. It is considered to be one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and Roman engineering. Its construction started between 70 and 72 AD under the emperor Vespasian and it was completed in 80 AD under Titus. The name “Amphitheatrum Flavium” derives from both Vespasian’s and Titus’s family name and is the first name of Colosseum.

It was capable of seating around 50,000 spectators. The Colosseum was in past used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. It remained in use for such activities for nearly 500 years with the last recorded games being held there in the 6th century. Other games like mock sea battles, animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on classical mythology were also conducted there. It is in a ruined condition now due to damage caused by earthquakes and stone-robbers. The Colosseum is seen as an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome and is one of modern Rome’s most popular tourist attractions.