All you need to know about the Colosseum’s Architecture

The Colosseum of Rome, one of the most famous and magnificent ancient sites, attracts millions of tourists annually and holds the title of a ‘New Seven Wonder of the World.’ As the largest amphitheater ever constructed, this 2,000-year-old structure is an engineering and architectural masterpiece, attracting millions of visitors worldwide. 

Initiated under Emperor Vespasian’s reign, the Colosseum was built on the site once occupied by the artificial lake of Emperor Nero’s vast palace complex – the Domus Aurea. After the death of the deeply unpopular Nero in 68 AD, Vespasian drained the lake to build the amphitheater. The aim was to win back the hearts of the people of Rome, while simultaneously showcasing the Empire’s glory and strength. 

Construction started in 72 AD and was completed in 80 AD under Vespasian’s successor, Titus, with further modifications added during Domitian’s reign. Collectively, these emperors form the Flavian Dynasty, leading to the Colosseum being called the Flavian Amphitheater in antiquity. The main building materials were travertine stone, Roman concrete, bricks and tuff, which have helped the Colosseum stand the test of time, despite the damage sustained from earthquakes, fires and looting.

The large section missing on the eastern side is one of the most recognizable ‘scars’ that ancient Roman Colosseum bears today. This huge gap in the outer ring walls was primarily due to a major earthquake in 1349. During the medieval era, many fallen stones, marbles and iron clamps were repurposed and used in the construction of other buildings in Rome. 

Over the centuries, the Colosseum has been used as a cemetery, quarry, fort and sacred Christian site, until the 19th century, when the major restoration efforts began. Although the amphitheater can no longer host events like it did in the past as an entertainment center, it remains a deeply inspirational symbol of the ancient Roman world.

The Colosseum’s Majestic Architecture: A Testament to Roman Ingenuity

As one of the most intricate and expansive structures of its time, the Colosseum is distinguished for its impressive size and architectural design. The amphitheater incorporates the three primary classical orders (or styles) from ancient Greece - the Doric, Ionic and Corinthian – with the understated Tuscan and more ornate Composite styles. While Greek architecture focused on structural elements such as supporting pillars, Roman architecture emphasized arches. Consequently, the three Greek styles were used decorativelyin Roman structures, with the Colosseum being a prime example.

The Roman Colosseum boasted two main entrances, each serving a distinct purpose. The northwestern entrance, called the Porta Triumphalis, was used for triumphal processions and gladiator entry into the arena. The southeastern entrance was known as the Porta Libitinaria and go its name from the Roman goddess of funerals and burials, Libitina. As the name suggests, this entrance was used to remove the deceased from the Colosseum.

The Roman Colosseum’s design grew increasingly complex with each ascending level. The first three floors consisted of 80 arches, with the largest arches on the ground floor measuring about 4 meters wide and 7 meters tall. The ground floor columns featured the Tuscan style, while the second floor showcased the more elaborate Ionic style. The third floor had the most intricate and lavish design, employing the ornately decorated Corinthian style. The fourth floor diverged in style, opting for flat panels instead of arches and columns. Initially believed to be plain, the restoration work has revealed intricate carvings and insets of azurite and bronze adorning the panels.  

The Roman Colosseum’s Interior: A Glimpse into its Glory Days

While the Roman Colosseum’s exterior is undoubtedly striking, the interior during its prime was equally captivating. The focal point was the infamous arena, where gladiators, prisoners and wild animals engaged in life-or-death battles. Measuring 83 meters in length and 48 meters in width, the arena floor consisted of wooden panels overlaid with sand. A series of trap doors connected to the hypogeum facilitated the introduction and removal of scenery and special effects during performances. At the same time, a 3-meter wall around the oval-shaped arena separated the spectators in the first tier of seats from the action.

In contrast to the dazzling white exterior, the iconic arena featured red and black stone blocks, which resulted in a striking visual contrast. According to historical sources such as the Codex Calendar of 354 AD, the Colosseum of ancient Rome could accommodate up to 87,000 spectators. Although this number may be inflated, modern estimates suggest that the arena had a capacity of 50,000 to 60,000 spectators. 

After entering the Colosseum, the spectators would make their way to their seats, which were determined by their social standing and wealth. The seating area was largely divided into three sets of bleachers, called cavea. Depending on the Colosseum ticket or guided tour that you book, you can visit the seating areas and see what it was like to watch the drama unfold in the arena. 

The Roman Emperor had the best view from his special private box at the north end of the Colosseum, while the box in the southern end was reserved for the vestal virgins (sacred priestesses). The highest-ranking Romans, such as senators, occupied the podium, which was situated closest to the action. Above them were the wealthier and noble classes, as well as sections for foreign dignitaries and other officials. 

The common citizens of Rome, the plebeians, were seated at the top tiers, further away from the arena. During Domitian’s reign, an additional level, the maenianum secundum in legneis, was constructed, providing a gallery for the impoverished, slaves, and women. The stone seats were about 40 centimeters wide and spectators had to bring their own cushions to make their stay there more comfortable. Based on archeological findings, this later section likely only offered standing room. 

The Hidden World of the Hypogeum

While the Roman Colosseum is renowned for its grand arena, its most fascinating and crucial element can be found beneath the arena floor: the hypogeum, a two-level maze of tunnels and chambers. Constructed during Emperor Domitian’s reign, the primary aim was to accommodate gladiators and animals before their performances. The hypogeum also actd as a discreet passageway into the amphitheater for the emperor and had a direct connection with the Ludus Magnus gladiator school.

Over the centuries, the network underwent numerous renovations and enhancements, with at least twelve distinct construction phases identified during conservation efforts. The hypogeum was connected to the arena through eighty vertical shafts with elevators and pulleys, which were used to transport caged animals and scenery for shows and performances. Full experience ticket holders and guided tours allow visitors to explore these areas in the Colosseum, to see behind the curtains of the world’s largest amphitheater. 

The ancient Colosseum arena could be filled with water from a nearby aqueduct, in order to stage spectacular naval battle reenactments - the naumachia. However, after the underground areas were further developed, it became impossible to flood the arena floor, ultimately ending these naval displays. You can read more about types of spectacles and games that amazed the crowds in the Colosseum in our blog post on the legendary gladiators.

Although the era of emperors and gladiator games may be long gone, the Colosseum and its architecture continue to inspire, while also providing a unique glimpse into the ancient Roman world’s beauty, genius and brutality.