Introduction:
You’ve seen it in photos, but how much do you really know about the Colosseum? Here are ten surprising facts about Rome’s most famous monument.
Main Content:
It could hold over 50,000 people.
It had a retractable roof system—an ancient “velarium.”
Gladiators rarely fought to the death.
It was built in only 8 years.
The arena had underground tunnels for animals and fighters.
It was originally called the Flavian Amphitheater.
It suffered earthquake damage in the 14th century.
It became a quarry for centuries.
The Colosseum was once a Christian pilgrimage site.
Today it attracts over 7 million visitors annually.
