{"id":8430,"date":"2015-12-10T11:10:17","date_gmt":"2015-12-10T11:10:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/walks.friday.ie\/?p=8430"},"modified":"2026-05-28T14:22:59","modified_gmt":"2026-05-28T13:22:59","slug":"roman-colosseum-facts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts","title":{"rendered":"Roman Colosseum Facts: 12 Surprising Things You Might Not Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-start=\"325\" data-end=\"373\">Think you know the Roman Colosseum? Think again.\u00a0As one of the most visited landmarks in the world, the <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Colosseum<\/span><\/span> attracts millions of visitors each year! But despite its fame, plenty of myths and misconceptions still surround it. Hollywood films, school textbooks, and centuries of storytelling have blurred the line between fact and fiction.\u00a0From gladiator myths to hidden engineering marvels, here are some of the most fascinating Roman Colosseum facts &#8211; and the surprising truths behind this iconic monument.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13619\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13619\" class=\"wp-image-13619 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Walks-20181109-Rome-Premium-Colosseum-16x9-0001-e1732515674399.jpg\" alt=\"The exterior of the Colosseum in Rome. \" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13619\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Roman Colosseum\u2019s many centuries of history make you wonder what is true and what isn\u2019t.<\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#Roman_Colosseum_Facts\" >Roman Colosseum Facts:<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#1_The_Colosseum_wasnt_originally_called_%E2%80%9Cthe_Colosseum%E2%80%9D\" >1. The Colosseum wasn\u2019t originally called \u201cthe Colosseum\u201d<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#2_It_is_a_highly_respected_model_for_modern_stadium_architects\" >2. It is a highly respected model for modern stadium architects<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#3_%E2%80%9CThumbs_down%E2%80%9D_probably_wasnt_the_signal_for_death\" >3. \u201cThumbs down\u201d probably wasn\u2019t the signal for death<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#4_Gladiators_didnt_always_die\" >4. Gladiators didn\u2019t always die<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#5_Gladiators_were_ancient_celebrities\" >5. Gladiators were ancient celebrities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#6_The_Colosseum_hosted_more_than_gladiator_fights\" >6. The Colosseum hosted more than gladiator fights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#7_Thousands_of_wild_animals_were_used_in_the_games\" >7. Thousands of wild animals were used in the games<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#8_Animals_came_from_across_the_Roman_Empire\" >8. Animals came from across the Roman Empire<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#9_The_underground_was_Ancient_Romes_backstage\" >9. The underground was Ancient Rome\u2019s backstage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#10_It_had_a_retractable_roof\" >10. It had a retractable roof<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#11_Christians_were_probably_not_mass-martyred_here\" >11. Christians were probably not mass-martyred here<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#12_It_still_hosts_special_events_today\" >12. It still hosts special events today<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#Were_still_discovering_new_things_about_it\" >We\u2019re still discovering new things about it<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#FAQs_%E2%80%93_Visiting_the_Roman_Colosseum\" >FAQs \u2013 Visiting the Roman Colosseum<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#Do_you_need_to_book_Colosseum_tickets_in_advance\" >Do you need to book Colosseum tickets in advance?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#How_much_time_should_you_spend_at_the_Colosseum\" >How much time should you spend at the Colosseum?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/roman-colosseum-facts\/#Whats_the_best_time_of_day_to_visit_the_Colosseum\" >What\u2019s the best time of day to visit the Colosseum?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Roman_Colosseum_Facts\"><\/span>Roman Colosseum Facts:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 data-start=\"917\" data-end=\"978\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_The_Colosseum_wasnt_originally_called_%E2%80%9Cthe_Colosseum%E2%80%9D\"><\/span>1. The Colosseum wasn\u2019t originally called \u201cthe Colosseum\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"979\" data-end=\"1205\">Its official ancient name was the <strong data-start=\"1013\" data-end=\"1037\">Flavian Amphitheatre<\/strong>, named after the Flavian emperors, <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Vespasian<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Titus<\/span><\/span>, and <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Domitian, <\/span><\/span>who built it.\u00a0\u00a0The name \u201cColosseum\u201d likely came later, inspired by the nearby <strong data-start=\"1270\" data-end=\"1290\">Colossus of Nero<\/strong>, a giant bronze statue that once stood beside it.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"917\" data-end=\"978\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_It_is_a_highly_respected_model_for_modern_stadium_architects\"><\/span>2. It is a highly respected model for modern stadium architects<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1665\" data-end=\"1736\">At its peak, <a href=\"https:\/\/colosseo.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the Colosseum<\/a> seated between <strong data-start=\"1707\" data-end=\"1735\">50,000 and 80,000 people<\/strong>. That\u2019s comparable to the larger modern sports stadiums like the <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Yankee Stadium<\/span><\/span> (47,000) and Manchester\u00b4s <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Old Trafford<\/span><\/span> (74,000).\u00a0In other words: imagine a sold-out football stadium, built without electricity or cranes.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1665\" data-end=\"1736\"><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">The Colosseum\u2019s tiered seating was carefully designed to <strong>accommodate different social classes,<\/strong> with the best seats reserved for senators and nobility, while common citizens and lower classes sat higher up.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1665\" data-end=\"1736\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Colosseum featured <strong>groundbreaking engineering,<\/strong> including retractable awnings and underground chambers.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\"> The massive amphitheater was built using a combination of<strong> concrete, brick, and travertine,<\/strong> allowing for both durability and quick construction.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1665\" data-end=\"1736\">What is more impressive is that it was carefully designed to move huge crowds efficiently, with <strong data-start=\"2043\" data-end=\"2069\">80 entrances and exits<\/strong>, it could be emptied extremely quickly. In fact, modern stadium architects still study this crowd-flow design today.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20841\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20841\" class=\"wp-image-20841 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colosseum_hypogeum.jpg\" alt=\"An interior view of the seats and bottom floor known as the hypogeum inside the Colosseum.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"589\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colosseum_hypogeum.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colosseum_hypogeum-768x377.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20841\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The structure of the Colosseum, with its many levels, sections and exits is a model for modern architects<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 data-start=\"2198\" data-end=\"2255\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_%E2%80%9CThumbs_down%E2%80%9D_probably_wasnt_the_signal_for_death\"><\/span>3. \u201cThumbs down\u201d probably wasn\u2019t the signal for death<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2256\" data-end=\"2287\">We have all seen it in Hollywood blockbuster films about Gladiators and the like, but it seems that film directors and popular culture got this wrong.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2289\" data-end=\"2434\">The decisive moment after an epic fight in the historic building leads to a gesture by the emperor. Thumbs up, or thumbs down? The gesture was immortalized in <strong>Jean-Le\u00f3n G\u00e9rome\u2019s 19th century painting <em>Pollice Verso,<\/em><\/strong> which is what the ancient Roman\u2019s called the gesture, literally \u201cwith a thumb turned.\u201d The problem is that it\u2019s never been clear <strong>how turned the thumb was.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2289\" data-end=\"2434\">Historians actually believe Romans likely used a <strong data-start=\"2329\" data-end=\"2357\">horizontal thumb gesture<\/strong>, symbolizing a sword to the throat, not a simple thumbs down, to signal death. And the crowd reportedly shouted: <em data-start=\"2466\" data-end=\"2477\">\u201cIugula!\u201d<\/em> (\u201cThroat!\u201d)<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_22945\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22945\" class=\"wp-image-22945 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Sam-20170806-ROME-Gladiators-Gate-0321_High-Res.jpg\" alt=\"People looking at Roman Colosseum architecture at the Colosseum. \" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Sam-20170806-ROME-Gladiators-Gate-0321_High-Res.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Sam-20170806-ROME-Gladiators-Gate-0321_High-Res-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-22945\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Now you can walk on the arena floor and imagine what it was like to be a gladiator.<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 data-start=\"2497\" data-end=\"2532\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Gladiators_didnt_always_die\"><\/span>4. Gladiators didn\u2019t always die<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Contrary to this common belief about the Colosseum, the probability of exiting from the arena alive\u00a0was not low, at least in the Republican era and the first imperial age.<\/p>\n<p>Again, despite what films suggest, gladiator fights were not usually to the death.\u00a0There were more risks of dying from deep wounds, or cowardice (which could enrage the audience, who would consequently ask for the gladiator to be killed), than by being denied mercy.\u00a0In late Imperial times, forgiveness actually became commonplace.<\/p>\n<p>In this case, the gladiator bowed and waited for the blow to the nape, or throat. Normally, those who had to die did not remove their helmets, so that the opponent was not forced to see their last look. This habit was a consequence of the fact that many gladiators trained together and some of them were certainly friends. Imagine if, one fine day, you had to fight a friend or, even worse, kill him.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_21710\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21710\" class=\"wp-image-21710 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Gladiator-fight-in-Colosseum.jpg\" alt=\"Roman Colosseum facts about gladiators fighting in the sun\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Gladiator-fight-in-Colosseum.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Gladiator-fight-in-Colosseum-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-21710\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Gladiators could, in many occasions, leave the arena alive. Photo credit: Hans Splinter<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 data-start=\"2795\" data-end=\"2837\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Gladiators_were_ancient_celebrities\"><\/span>5. Gladiators were ancient celebrities<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2838\" data-end=\"2873\">The truth of the matter is that training gladiators was expensive, so owners preferred them alive and many survived multiple fights.\u00a0Their names were known across Rome. The most successful were the ancient version of celebrities. Some were the sports stars, and sex symbols, of their day.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2838\" data-end=\"2873\">Women reportedly admired them, fans collected memorabilia, and some even became wealthy and famous.\u00a0Think modern footballers, but with swords.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13595\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13595\" class=\"wp-image-13595 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Walks-20170825-Rome-Premium-Colosseum-16x9-0003-e1739295868264.jpg\" alt=\"A tour guide explaining Roman architecture facts at the Colosseum. \" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13595\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Expert guides can tell you stories that will astound and enthral you!<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 data-start=\"3024\" data-end=\"3078\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_The_Colosseum_hosted_more_than_gladiator_fights\"><\/span>6. The Colosseum hosted more than gladiator fights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The program of the games in the Colosseum was pretty multi-faceted, as far as blood sports go. It included a series of shows and performances that lasted several hours.\u00a0A full day at the Colosseum could include animal hunts (<em data-start=\"3138\" data-end=\"3150\">venationes<\/em>), public executions, theatrical spectacles, mythological reenactments and gladiator contests.\u00a0It was ancient Rome\u2019s version of all-day live entertainment.<\/p>\n<p>Historians believe they began with a presentation of all the <em>stars<\/em> of the day. The morning program then continued with fights between animals, followed by circus performances, and ended with hunting games. Around noon, during the lunch break, death sentences or public executions of criminals were staged.<\/p>\n<p>Public executions had a dual purpose: to warn the people of the consequences of breaking strict Roman law, and to <em>fill<\/em> the lunch break by exploiting these men as human merchandise to be sacrificed, for the pleasure of the spectators. The afternoon would continue with the long-awaited confrontations between gladiators.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15066\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15066\" class=\"wp-image-15066 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Colosseum-e1732514707992.jpg\" alt=\"The Colosseum in Rome. \" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-15066\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">There was an extensive list of events happening all day long in the Roman Colosseum, not only gladiator fights.<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 data-start=\"3313\" data-end=\"3368\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Thousands_of_wild_animals_were_used_in_the_games\"><\/span>7. Thousands of wild animals were used in the games<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Another of the Roman Colosseum facts that is misrepresented in the movies is that you only see lions and tigers. But the truth is that, on top of the big cats, ancient Romans killed entire menageries of animals. The scale was enormous, and brutal.<\/p>\n<p>Historical records mention:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3431\" data-end=\"3524\">\n<li>lions, tigers, leopards, cheetahs and panthers<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3431\" data-end=\"3442\">elephants, rhinos and\u00a0hippos<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3476\" data-end=\"3483\">bears, wolves,\u00a0jackals and hyenas<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3493\" data-end=\"3504\">giraffes and camels<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3452\" data-end=\"3464\">gazelles and antelopes<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3452\" data-end=\"3464\">moose, bison and bulls<\/li>\n<li>crocodiles<\/li>\n<li>ostriches<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3514\" data-end=\"3524\">as well as donkeys, horses, hares, rabbits, deer, wild pigs and boars&#8230; to name but a few.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The animals were\u00a0used in hunting games known as <em data-start=\"907\" data-end=\"919\">venationes<\/em>.\u00a0These events pitted animals against gladiators or against each other, providing thrilling and often gruesome entertainment for the spectators.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"3567\" data-end=\"3616\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Animals_came_from_across_the_Roman_Empire\"><\/span>8. Animals came from across the Roman Empire<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You may ask yourself, where did the Romans find all of these animals? Well, it seems that Rome imported them from all over the world and transporting them was a massive logistical operation.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Crocodiles, rhinos, hippos, and giraffes came <strong>from southern Egypt.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Gazelles, antelopes, jackals, ostriches, hyenas, lions, cheetahs, panthers, and elephants came from <strong>North Africa.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>The bears were mostly from the <strong>Atlas Mountains in Morocco.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Italy, and other <strong>European countries, provided all the herbivores,<\/strong> such as hares, roe deer, deer, wild pigs, and donkeys, as well as bears, bison, bulls, wolves, and moose.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_13597\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13597\" class=\"wp-image-13597\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Walks-20181109-Rome-Premium-Colosseum-16x9-0004.jpg\" alt=\"Arena floor, Roman Colosseum facts: animals.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13597\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Plenty of animals were killed in this arena, and not only lions and tigers.<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 data-start=\"3817\" data-end=\"3869\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_The_underground_was_Ancient_Romes_backstage\"><\/span>9. The underground was Ancient Rome\u2019s backstage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3870\" data-end=\"3929\">Known as the <strong data-start=\"3883\" data-end=\"3895\">hypogeum<\/strong>, the underground chambers housed gladiators waiting to fight, trapped animals, stage machinery and a series of lifts and trapdoors.\u00a0This was where Roman \u201cspecial effects\u201d happened.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3870\" data-end=\"3929\"><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">A sophisticated system of pulleys and trapdoors in the <em data-start=\"1432\" data-end=\"1442\">hypogeum<\/em>\u00a0 enabled dramatic entrances of gladiators and animals. This demonstrates Rome\u2019s advanced knowledge of mechanics and architecture.<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p data-start=\"4019\" data-end=\"4067\"><strong>Insider Tip:<\/strong> Learn more about <span class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/attractions\/colosseum-underground-reopened?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the Colosseum Underground <\/a><\/span>and how visitors can now explore these fascinating tunnels.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div id=\"attachment_22947\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22947\" class=\"wp-image-22947 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Walks-20190709-Rome-Colosseum-at-Night-0056-HIGH-RES.jpg\" alt=\"People walking through the halls of the Colosseum. \" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Walks-20190709-Rome-Colosseum-at-Night-0056-HIGH-RES.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Walks-20190709-Rome-Colosseum-at-Night-0056-HIGH-RES-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-22947\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Walk th eundergorund tunnels to see the Colosseum from a different perspective<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 data-start=\"4131\" data-end=\"4164\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_It_had_a_retractable_roof\"><\/span>10. It had a retractable roof<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4165\" data-end=\"4264\">in addition to the engineering of the hypogeum, the Colosseum also had a retractable roof.\u00a0The <strong data-start=\"4169\" data-end=\"4181\">velarium<\/strong> was a giant awning stretched over the top to protect spectators from sun and rain. Roman sailors operated it, because it required serious rope-handling skills.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"4348\" data-end=\"4403\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Christians_were_probably_not_mass-martyred_here\"><\/span>11. Christians were probably not mass-martyred here<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4404\" data-end=\"4473\">Many people assume thousands of Christians died here for their faith. It\u2019s true that Christians were killed in the Colosseum, but we still have no clear proof that Christians were executed inside Rome&#8217;s Colosseum <em>for being Christian.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4404\" data-end=\"4473\">The truth? Some Christians certainly died there, but likely as part of standard spectacles. Historians have <strong data-start=\"4502\" data-end=\"4521\">little evidence<\/strong> to support large-scale Christian martyrdom in the Colosseum specifically.<\/p>\n<p>We do, however, know that Christians were killed in other places, like the private circus of Nero, situated not far from the present-day Basilica of St. Peter.<\/p>\n<p>We also know what Christians thought of the blood sports: interestingly, they did not feel compassion for the gladiators. Instead, they thought that it was the public who suffered the most moral and spiritual damage from attending such violent spectacle. A belief surprisingly close to that of the pagan writers. Only later did Christians begin to feel compassion for those actually fighting in the arena.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_22946\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22946\" class=\"wp-image-22946 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Walks-20170807-Rome-Premium-Colosseum-High-Res-0014.jpg\" alt=\"View of the Colosseum and other Roman ruins in Rome. \" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Walks-20170807-Rome-Premium-Colosseum-High-Res-0014.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Walks-20170807-Rome-Premium-Colosseum-High-Res-0014-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-22946\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Not all Roman Colosseum facts are straightforward.<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 data-start=\"4683\" data-end=\"4726\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_It_still_hosts_special_events_today\"><\/span>12. It still hosts special events today<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Colosseum serves as a <strong>popular tourist attraction and occasional venue for special events.<\/strong><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\"> Millions of visitors explore the site each year, marveling at its history and architecture.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">While it no longer hosts gladiatorial battles, the amphitheater has been used for <strong>concerts, religious ceremonies, and even theatrical performances.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">It also serves as a powerful symbol of Rome\u2019s past, and preservation efforts continue to maintain this iconic landmark for future generations.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_14801\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-14801\" class=\"wp-image-14801 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/christmas-tree-colosseo.jpg\" alt=\"Christmas tree at the Colosseum\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-14801\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Be sure to check if there are any special events and concerts at the Colosseum during your visit.<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 data-start=\"4917\" data-end=\"4968\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Were_still_discovering_new_things_about_it\"><\/span>We\u2019re still discovering new things about it<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4969\" data-end=\"5022\">Archaeologists continue uncovering new details about the Colosseum and it`s engineering systems, underground structures, seating arrangements, restoration methods and more! Even after 2,000 years, the Colosseum still has secrets. Recent discoveries and restorations, including ancient <span class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/third-level-graffiti-colosseum?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">graffiti at the Colosseum<\/a><\/span>, continue revealing how spectators experienced the amphitheatre nearly 2,000 years ago.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13596\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13596\" class=\"wp-image-13596 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Walks-20170807-Rome-Premium-Colosseum-16x9-0012-e1739294519929.jpg\" alt=\"A woman pointing at Roman architecture at the Colosseum. \" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13596\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">New facts about the Colosseum are being uncovered all the time.<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"qMYqUG_convSearchResultHighlightRoot\">\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-6a0da788-7bf8-83eb-a229-413335a8534a-25\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-6a0da788-7bf8-83eb-a229-413335a8534a-25\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-6a0da788-7bf8-83eb-a229-413335a8534a-25\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-154\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"57315c67-202b-44ba-ba08-abf38194a22e\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-5\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<h2 data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"38\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_%E2%80%93_Visiting_the_Roman_Colosseum\"><\/span>FAQs \u2013 Visiting the Roman Colosseum<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 data-start=\"40\" data-end=\"93\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_you_need_to_book_Colosseum_tickets_in_advance\"><\/span>Do you need to book Colosseum tickets in advance?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"95\" data-end=\"376\">Yes, especially during spring and summer. Timed-entry tickets for the Colosseum often sell out days or even weeks ahead, particularly for special areas like the Underground or Arena Floor. Booking in advance is strongly recommended if you want specific entry times or guided tours.<\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p data-start=\"95\" data-end=\"376\"><strong>Insider Tip:<\/strong> If you\u2019re confused by the different entry options, timings, and restricted areas, our guide to <span class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/colosseum-tickets-explained?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Colosseum tickets explained<\/a><\/span> breaks down exactly which ticket is best for your visit.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<h3 data-start=\"383\" data-end=\"435\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_time_should_you_spend_at_the_Colosseum\"><\/span>How much time should you spend at the Colosseum?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"437\" data-end=\"689\">Most visitors spend around 2\u20133 hours exploring the Colosseum itself, plus additional time for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which are included with most tickets. If you\u2019re joining a guided tour, expect the full experience to last around 3\u20134 hours.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"696\" data-end=\"751\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_best_time_of_day_to_visit_the_Colosseum\"><\/span>What\u2019s the best time of day to visit the Colosseum?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"753\" data-end=\"997\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Early morning or late afternoon are usually the best times to visit, as temperatures are cooler and crowds are smaller. Midday, especially in summer, can be extremely hot and busy, with long security lines and limited shade inside the monument.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"z-0 flex min-h-[46px] justify-start\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1620\" height=\"1080\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24855\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Walks_Rome_ColosseumExpress_WEB-RES-0006.jpg\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Walks_Rome_ColosseumExpress_WEB-RES-0006.jpg 1620w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Walks_Rome_ColosseumExpress_WEB-RES-0006-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Walks_Rome_ColosseumExpress_WEB-RES-0006-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1620px) 100vw, 1620px\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pointer-events-none -mt-px h-px translate-y-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom)-14*var(--spacing))]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"50\"><strong>Ready to experience the Colosseum for yourself?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"52\" data-end=\"279\">Reading about the Colosseum is fascinating, but nothing compares to standing inside the arena where gladiators once fought, emperors entertained the masses, and nearly 2,000 years of history still echo through the ancient stone.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"281\" data-end=\"521\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Join an expertly guided <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/rome-tours\/roman-colosseum-tours\/\">Premium Colosseum Guided Tour <\/a><\/strong>or explore our wider selection of <span class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/rome-tours\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tour of Rome<\/a><\/span> experiences to discover even more of the Eternal City. These highly-rated tour provides the perfect mix of history and storytelling &#8211; perfect for your first visit to Rome and the Colosseum!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"281\" data-end=\"521\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Go beyond the ruins to uncover the stories, myths, engineering marvels, and unforgettable moments that made the Colosseum one of the greatest spectacles of the ancient world.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Think you know the Roman Colosseum? Think again.\u00a0As one of the most visited landmarks in the world, the Colosseum attracts millions of visitors each year! But despite its fame, plenty of myths and misconceptions still surround it. Hollywood films, school textbooks, and centuries of storytelling have blurred the line between fact and fiction.\u00a0From gladiator myths [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":13594,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[95,20,272,69,18],"ppma_author":[155],"class_list":["post-8430","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-art-culture","tag-ancient-rome","tag-attractions","tag-colosseum","tag-history","tag-rome"],"authors":[{"term_id":155,"user_id":3,"is_guest":0,"slug":"walksofitaly","display_name":"Walks of Italy","avatar_url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9f4cd4dd0c5ab4b4bae57f3500298e23?s=96&d=mm&r=g","user_url":"http:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/blog","last_name":"of Italy","first_name":"Walks","job_title":"","description":"Walks began life as the passion project of two guys with one simple mission: To share their love for, and knowledge of, the city of Rome. Since then, Walks has grown into a team of over 100 ground staff and at any time up to 600 guides, operating across 13 of the world\u2019s most exciting cities (and counting!)\r\n\r\nToday we provide some of the most exclusive and beautifully designed small group tours in the industry through Italy-based Walks of Italy and around the world at Walks, where we offer special access to some of the world\u2019s most iconic landmarks and attractions as well as unique cultural experiences."}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8430"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8430"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8430\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":25516,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8430\/revisions\/25516"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13594"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8430"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8430"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8430"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=8430"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}