Roman Coliseum - Italy

If you're going to Italy, you simply must visit the Roman Coliseum. This magnificent structure (also known as the Flavius ampitheatre) was first constructed around 80 AD by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavia family and his son Titus.

The ceremony held for the Coliseum's opening lasted a whopping 100 days and showcased many bloody fights between gladiators and even animals. Although all Roman citizens were given free entry to the Coliseum, seating was based on social standing. The closer you were to the front, the higher your status. There was room for seventy thousand people to sit comfortably. In its heyday, the Coliseum even had a linen covering over the top to protect spectators from the hot sun.

In the middle ages, after the time of the gladiators, the Coliseum was used as a stone quarry that was used for the construction of St. Peter's, Piazza Venezia and the Barberini Palace.

These days, the Roman Coliseum is in ruins, far from its original splendor. However, it's still one of the premier tourist destinations for anyone visiting Italy. You can still see the holes where the metals were extracted.

When you first reach the entrance of the Coliseum, you will see men dressed in traditional Roman guard costumes to welcome you to the site. On your tour, you'll not only see the main part of the Coliseum but also the place where animals like lions and tigers were held. You can purchase a wide variety of souvenirs like postcards, guidebooks and more from Roman street vendors.

If you want to visit the Roman Coliseum, you can do so on any day of the week. Tickets cost around 12 euro, and if you want a guided tour, that will cost you about 15 euro. Students, teachers and senior citizens can obtain a discounted price.