The Flavian Ampitheater Exposed

Over the centuries, Rome has been the most influential city in shaping political and economic powers in the world. Dating back to 753 BC, the intense and overwhelming history is difficult to fully comprehend. While visiting this world city I was hoping to see and experience this history through the ruins, monuments, and urban landscape. While there is not a shortage of sites to see, there was a shortage in time. In realizing this unfortunate reality, I would advise visitors to write down their top sites to see and leave the other sites for a future return trip. Once you’ve narrowed your list, it’s time to finally see the Colosseum you saw in Gladiator or the Pantheon you learned about in history class Our first must-see stop was the gem of Rome; the Colosseum. We could see it at the end of the main street standing tall and proud. It was just as you see in magazines; the skeleton of a famous amphitheater with architraves that have witnessed countless battles, dramas, and reenactments. The worn pale grey stone ellipse decorated with layers of round arches, engaged columns and string course all fit together like one large tiered architectural cake. This architectural spectacle built in the 1^st century AD exemplifies the power, skill, and growth of the Roman Empire. The geographical landscape was ideal due to the flat ground snug between 2 hills. Originally there was a lake made around the structure to accentuate the site. The lake was later filled in and developed. Streets form an organic radial star around this monument and other major structures such a

s the Arch of Constantine, Foro Romano, and Domus Aurea. This shows that even today, this powerful structure continues to stand its ground between the grid of the busy streets filled with tour buses and vespas. The Colosseum was not only site to entertainment and public social status during Roman times, but also held religious significance. Only a hundred yards away from the Colosseum stands the Arch of Constantine; erected in 315 AD as a symbol of Constantine’s end to long history of Christian persecutions. The location of the arch says a lot about the importance of location and the significant ties it has to buildings and their past. The Arch of Constantine is a symbol of peace and religious relief, standing next to the Flavian Amphitheater (Colosseum); site of countless Christian executions. It is interesting to think about why the Colosseum is today one of the most recognizable symbols of Rome and Italy. Why do 3.9 million people visit it each year? Is it to see where thousands died painful, bloody deaths? Is it to see where Christians were burned at the stake? Is it to appreciate the architecture and structural qualities? Or is it to check another major attraction off your bucket list? I think it’s unknown for many until they actually visit. You can’t fully get the appreciation or understanding for such a masterpiece such as the Colosseum until you have visited it. Even more incredible is the broader view of other famous monuments and ruins Rome has to offer. Just in this one example of the Colosseum, one can see how complex its history and influence is. By visiting other famous landmarks in this city one can slowly piece together Roman history and revisit its past. The Flavian Amphitheater is the centerpiece of Roman history and world influence that has lasted for centuries and continues to be an international icon for Rome. Visiting these landmarks gives one an even greater appreciation for travel and opportunity to experience such wonders.

Useful sites:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/romans/colosseum_01.shtml

http://www.roman-colosseum.info/index.htm

http://www.the-colosseum.net/idx-en.htm

http://www.italyguides.it/us/roma/colosseum.htm