Is there any building more iconic than the Colosseum? The colossal stone structure of this Roman amphitheatre, rising up in front of you as you walk towards it. The stone arches that wear the scars of time. The centuries of history it has witnessed, and continues to witness. The brutal games that happened here, for the entertainment of the people of Rome, are now just echoes of a time long gone.
When it comes to famous buildings in Rome, the competition is tough. The Pantheon, St. Peters Basilica, The Sistine Chapel, Castel Sant’Angelo; if you’ve been to Rome you know. The Colosseum – in my opinion – easily wins the title of most iconic building in Rome, or Italy even! Maybe even Europe?
Sightseeing is a big part of exploring a destination, combined with cultural experiences and food. I’m a bit of a strange one when it comes to sightseeing, especially with the famous sights. I really enjoy seeing famous places in real life, but somehow I often feel slightly underwhelmed. Sounds awful! I do appreciate the engineering, time and effort it took to construct these buildings, but it somehow never surprises me. Maybe it’s because you often see photos of them or read about them. It’s literally a confirmation of what you’ve seen in pictures. Kind of like: Oh yeah, there it is!
Up and close with the Colosseum
Seeing the Colosseum for the first time, I was actually blown away! It was during a weekend trip to Rome and walking up to it, I was really impressed by the size of it. The closer you get, the more details you see. Those famous arches all around the structure are actually enormous close-up. It’s unbelievable to think they’ve built this almost 2000 years ago! And with such symmetry!
Once inside, I’m on the stand, halfway up the Colosseum. I can see the arena from here. Imagine what it would be like to have been here as a spectator, watching gladiators fighting animals and each other. You can almost feel the atmosphere: the tumultuous crowds, the shouting, the laughter, the gasps and the applause.
Looking down, you’ll notice that the actual arena floor is missing. Instead you can see what was underneath. A network of rooms, corridors and tunnels that lead into and out of the arena. This is where men came in from their training camps, to ready themselves for physical combat. They would then be elevated into the arena, while the roaring of the spectators carried their names. If you think about it, it’s not unlike a modern football match, but the losers survive now.
Book a tour of the Hypogeum
The Hypogeum – the areas underneath the arena – has recently been re-opened to visitors, so you can experience it yourself! I can recommend booking a tour. It gives you a better experience, plus you often get to skip the queue for tickets.
There is a fantastic tour that takes you to the Roman Forum and The Colosseum, including the underground spaces. Our tour guide was a great personality, with stories and facts that really made the history of the Colosseum come to live!