The Colosseum

The Colosseum: a monumental structure that has begun to fall into ruins, yet it is still an impressive sight to visit today. Located in Rome, Italy, the site attracts many people from all over the world to marvel at the structure. Some may be confused as to what it really is. It's a giant amphitheater in the center of the city of Rome. At one point it could hold over 50,000 people, and is a very important part of the city of Rome. Construction began between 70 and 72 AD under the emperor Vespasian, who chose for it to be built just east of the Roman Forum. Completed in 80 AD under Titus, it was definitely the largest amphitheater ever built in the Roman Empire. The land that was used for construction of this structure had actually been Nero's private lake, but it was drained. The Colosseum was originally referred to as the "Flavian Amphitheater," but eventually came to be known as the Colosseum which, by definition, means "an oval large stadium with tiers of seats; an arena in which contests and spectacles are held." (The Free Online Dictionary) Materials used for the Colosseum included limestone blocks as well as brick, and then white marble was used over the materials to finish it off. Although no one really knows exactly how the Colosseum was constructed, there have been many educated theories as to how it was built and also how it is still standing practically 2,000 years later. Oxen were definitely a source of strength to move large pieces of the structure, as well as assisting horizontal work. Probably about 50% of the work was used by actual humans. The work wasn't necessarily dangerous; it was more of a vigorous project to work on. Workers would be exhausted, but back then, there were no regulations on overworking them. Building the Colosseum was definitely a difficult process, but it was totally worth it. Known as one of the greatest architectural buildings in the world, it is quite an impressive sight inside and out. It is roughly in an eliptical