How In The World Did They Even Build The Colosseum?
A "Colossal" Achievement
As Lord Byron once said, "When falls the Coliseum, Rome shall fall; And when Rome falls—the World". Standing tall for over two millennia, the Colosseum remains humanity's most remarkable architectural accomplishment.
The Grand Vision
The Colosseum, a later name for the Flavian Amphitheatre, was intended to be the biggest arena in the Roman Empire. Its construction began in 70 AD under the leadership of Emperor Vespasian with the aim to host gladiatorial fights and public performances.
Strategic Location
Vespasian decided to build the Colosseum in a valley between three hills, specifically on the site of Nero's artificial lake. This location was strategically chosen because it is centrally located in Rome, just east of the Roman Forum. It's accessible to everyone.
The Best For His CItizens
By replacing Nero's private lake with a public amphitheater, Vespasian symbolically returned the land to the Roman citizens. This, in a way, showed his commitment to the citizen's welfare and entertainment needs after the excesses of Nero's reign.
Land Preparation
The place was initially a low valley between the Caelian, Esquiline, and Palatine Hills. So, the workers first drained Nero's artificial lake and demolished parts of the Domus Aurea. The site required ground preparation to support the structure's weight and ensure proper drainage.
