Colosseum

Question 1

Colosseum Facts

Answer 1

Built when Rome was at its peak (72-80AD)
Official Name: Flavian Amphitheater
Largest amphitheater in the world
Fit 50,000-90,000 people
The structure is Roman engineering
The look is Greek classical style

Question 2

Colosseum Pillars

Answer 2

Facade includes all three classic Greek styles. Bottom tier - doric columns
Middle - Ionic
Top - Corinthian

Question 3

Colosseum Arena

Answer 3

Can see the underground passage and holding areas (hypogeum). Animals came up from here on elevators. Animals were brought up behind blinds so gladiators didn’t know what they’d be fighting or from where it would appear. The word arena actually meant “sand” which covered the ground at the colosseum.

Question 4

Arch of Constantine

Answer 4

Built to celebrate Constantine’s victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312AD. Was built fast – 2 years. Builders “borrowed” statues from nearby structures.
Largest of the Roman arches
One of only three remaining intact.

Question 5

Flavian Plaque

Answer 5

The official naming plaque of the Flavian Amphitheater. Also lists the popes responsible for building the colosseum.

Question 6

Entrance Gates

Answer 6

North & South gates used for dignitaries
Gate of Life was on East and where gladiators entered and left if victorious
Gate of Death was on the western side for dead or dying gladiators
*I think life was on the east side because that is where sun rises and death is on the west side because that is the sunset/end of the day