subject: Travel Back In Time To The Height Of The Roman Empire [print this page] It came to be called simply the Coliseum because people over time referred to it as such; the word deriving its meaning from the Roman word "gigantic."
As if the structure itself wasn't impressive enough, in its prime the Coliseum also boasted a huge awning that served to both shield the spectators from rain and scorching sun. Historians differ in their theories of how the awning was actually employed.
Some believe it was one immense piece that was first pulled over the floor of the Coliseum, then raised by its edges and stretched across the top where it was then secured to poles. Others believe it was sectioned into triangles that were fastened to the poles the protruded from the Coliseums crowning rims, and were raised and lowered similarly to ship sails.
Used to entertain tens of thousands of people with everything from gladiator death matches to theatrical productions of classic battles, the Coliseum was truly a wonder. The elevated seating and high walls were ideal for sound projection, the patron in the highest seat thus being able to hear the slightest murmur from the center of the arena. If you visit the Coliseum yet today you can still experience the brilliance of the acoustics in this manner.
Unfairly marked by misconception, historians do not believe Christians were ever given over to lions for public entertainment inside the Coliseum. Hollywood films have also portrayed Roman emperors signaling that a gladiator should live or die with a "thumbs up" or "thumbs down" gesture, but the opposite was actually true: thumbs down was to be interpreted as the gladiator should live, while a thumbs up meant he should be killed. The Coliseum ended the gladiator battles in the 5th century.
Visiting the amazing Coliseum is clearly something many people plan to do during their trips through Italy. To avoid long lines, however, consider buying your ticket at the Palatine Hill entrance rather than at the Coliseum itself, which is roughly 200 meters away. Also consider booking a tour, as well as an apartment online to avoid both the enormous lines and confusing booking arrangements one usually experiences once actually in the city. When you arrive, you'll want to begin your Roman adventure as soon as possible, and without the hassle of inconvenient delays and obstacles.
Read extensively online before coming to Rome in order to prioritize the sites you'd like to see. Countless must-sees await and the Coliseum will sure top your list, as it is one of the most recognized and cherished architectural treasures still standing on earth today.
by: Gaizka Pujana
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