The Colosseum.

Impressive, Right? 

There are few buildings more highly regarded in the pantheon of Roman history, and presently there is no other single attraction in all of Rome that is a bigger draw as a tourist destination.  But there is much about the Colosseum that is not commonly known, which I hope to share with you.

Many do not know that it is a mix of stone and concrete, built in less than a decade thousands of years ago.  Not only does it look good for being over 2000 years old, it survived being used as an active quarry for many years, and local fortress for the powerful families of the day.

This "theater in the round" (aka amphitheatre) was used most famously for gladiator fights but that included man v man, man v animal, animal v animal, and even mock naval battles!

The structure is over 12 stories high, ovular in the shape, and had extensive tunnels and underground trap doors and platforms to bring the various contestants to the killing ground floor.  

The creation and then endurance of the Colosseum over the centuries is a real testament to the size, power, and vision of the Roman Republic and then Empire that should make us all reflect a little more on a people group that ruled the known world at the time of the height of their power.  

Thought to balance that it should be appreciated that thousands of lives were lost or sacrificed merely for the benefit or entertainment of a privileged citizen class.  True, it was a completely different era today, but maybe it's better than society has become more civilized, even if we do not create anything that is so impressive or potentially long-lasting.

I find the Colosseum and all things Rome fascinating, and hope you enjoyed the quick article.

As always, hope your time was wellspent.

-Romulus