The colosseum is almost likely the most impressive building of the Roman empire. It was originally known as the Flavian Ampitheater, it was the largest building of that period.
The elliptical building is enormous, measuring 188m by 156m and reaching a height of more than 48m [159ft]. The Colosseum could accommodation some 55,000 spectators who entered the building through no less than 80 entrances. Above the grounds are four storeys, the upper floor containes seating for lower classes and women, and the lowest story was reserved for well-known citizens. Below ground were rooms and cages containing wild animals and mechanical devices, and the cages could be hoisted allowing the animal to appear in the middle of the arens.
Emperors used the Colosseum to entertain the public with free games. The games were a symbol of status and power and a way for an emperor to increase his popularity. The games were held for an entire day and sometimes for several days in a row. They usually started with comical acts and ended with fights between gladiators and animals, or gladiators and gladiators! The fighters were usually slaves, prisoners of war or condemned criminals.
The southern side of the Colosseum was destroyed by an earthquake in 847AD. Parts of the building - including the marble facade - were used in the construction of later monuments, including the St. Peter's Basilica.
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