Colosseum

Save
  • Address
    Piazza del Colosseo, Campitelli
  • Show map Close map
  • Phone
    06 39 96 77 00
  • Website
  • Transport
    underground rail: Colosseo
bus: J4, J5

Let us know if these details are incorrect

Lonely Planet review

Had the World Society for the Protection of Animals existed in ancient times, Emperor Vespasian's 50,000-seater would have been in strife: at its 100-day-long inauguration party in AD 80, 5000 animals were slaughtered in gladiatorial battles. Karma caught up with the stadium in the 6th century, when the empire's fall kick-started its devolution into a forlorn quarry – travertine from its exterior clads Chiesa di Sant'Agostino. It's now home to fascinating temporary exhibitions (a recent show focused on classical theatre).

Beware the 'gladiators' lingering outside who will charge to have your photo taken with them, as well as the 'official' guides touting discounted entry and shorter queues. If you do want to save time, prepurchase your ticket at the Palatine. Standing beside the Colosseum, the 4th-century Arco di Costantino honours Constantine's victory at Ponte Milvio.