The Roman Coliseum (or Colosseum) is an elliptical amphitheatre in the center of
Rome, Italy that is the largest stadium built by the mighty
Roman Empire. The Coliseum is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture ever built. It was originally capable of seating 50,000 spectators. The Colosseum's name is believed to be derived from a colossus (a giant 130 feet high statue) of Nero that stood nearby.
The construction of the Colosseum began under the rule of Roman Emperor Vespasian around 72 A.D. and was completed by his son, Titus, in the 80s A.D. The Colosseum hosted
large-scale games that included fights between
animals, the killing of prisoners by animals, naval battles (via flooding the arena) and combats between gladiators.
