What You Should Know Before Touring The Roman Colosseum
Visiting the Roman Colosseum was a breathtaking highlight of my trip to Rome. This iconic landmark, with its grandeur that captivates millions of travelers every year, left me in awe. As someone in my 50s who loves history and walking through ancient sites, I found it incredibly rewarding to explore this magnificent structure, officially known as the Flavian Amphitheatre. Built between AD 70 and 80 during the reign of emperors Vespasian and Titus, the Colosseum is an engineering marvel that’s stood the test of time, even if much of it is in ruins today.
Walking up to the Colosseum, I couldn’t help but imagine what it must have been like in its glory days, with crowds of up to 80,000 people filling the stands for gladiatorial games and public spectacles. The size and architectural ingenuity of the place are astounding, with its vast system of corridors, vaults, and seating arrangements that allowed ancient Romans to move smoothly through the arena.
Even though I’ve seen countless pictures of the Colosseum before, standing in front of it was a whole different experience. The Colosseum symbolizes ancient Rome’s grandeur and its darker, more brutal side. Knowing that gladiators fought to the death here and wild animals were hunted for entertainment made me reflect on how much history is packed into these weathered stones.
History and Uses of the Colosseum
One of the most fascinating things I learned while there was that the Colosseum was built with funds from the spoils of the Jewish Temple siege. It took about ten years to complete. When it finally opened, it became the center of Roman entertainment, hosting events beyond the gladiator fights I had always associated with it.
The Colosseum’s versatility was mind-blowing. It hosted gladiator fights, animal hunts, mock naval battles, public executions, and performances based on classical myths. The place was designed to impress, entertain, and awe its audience, and it certainly did.
Over time, as the Roman Empire declined, the Colosseum underwent several transformations, including being used as a quarry for building materials and a medieval fortress. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserved for visitors like me to walk through and appreciate the layers of history.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Book your tickets in advance if you’re like me and hate wasting time standing in line. It’s one of Rome’s most popular attractions so that planning will save you time and hassle. There are several options for exploring the site, depending on how deep into history you want to go. The standard entry covers the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, all must-sees. But guided tours are available if you’re looking for something more in-depth. I found them to be a fantastic way to understand the stories behind the architecture. If you prefer a self-guided tour, consider renting an audio guide or purchasing a guidebook at the entrance.
For a truly special experience, consider booking a special access tour. I splurged on one of these, and it was worth every penny. I saw the underground chambers where gladiators and animals waited before their fights, walked on the arena floor, and even visited the upper levels for a unique view of the city. The tour guide provided fascinating insights into the Colosseum’s history and architecture. You shouldn’t miss this if you’re as fascinated by history as I am.
Ticket prices are reasonable, with basic entry costing around €16, and discounts available for younger EU citizens and kids. Special tours range from €30 to €100, depending on what areas you want to explore and how long the tour lasts.
One tip I can’t emphasize enough is to wear comfortable shoes. There will be a lot of walking, and uneven surfaces can make things tricky if you’re unprepared. I also brought a water bottle, which is a lifesaver in the summer heat. Security is tight, so leave large bags behind—they won’t let you bring them in.
Top Tips for Your Visit
Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. The crowds are smaller, and the lighting is perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy photos! As a woman in my 50s, comfort was key, so I stuck with practical shoes and brought along a hat and sunscreen to protect myself from the sun. Trust me, high heels might look good in pictures, but you’ll regret it after an hour of walking around! Also, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner.
Security is pretty thorough, so pack light and be ready to have your bags checked. You don’t want to haul heavy bags, especially with all the walking. I also found that visiting on the first Sunday of the month—when entry is free—was a good way to save some money, though it does get busier on those days.
Finally, combine your visit to the Colosseum with a trip to the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. They’re all within walking distance and offer a complete picture of ancient Roman life. I spent a whole day immersing myself in history, and by the end of it, I felt like I had traveled back in time.
The Colosseum is more than just an ancient structure—it’s a portal to the past. I took my time to pause and soak in the atmosphere, imagining the roar of the crowds and the splendor of ancient Rome. This experience left a lasting impression on me and is one that I’ll always treasure.
For ideas for other things to see in Rome, click HERE.
For ideas of places to see in other parts of Italy, click HERE.
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