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Ruins · Roma, Lazio
Colosseo
The largest amphitheatre of the Roman Empire, inaugurated in 80 AD, where gladiator fights and animal hunts took place. The visit requires a nominal ticket with a scheduled time.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Colosseo
The Colosseo, called in its time the Anfiteatro Flavio, began to be built by Emperor Vespasiano around 70 AD and was inaugurated by his son Tito in 80 AD, with one hundred days of games. It held tens of thousands of spectators, seated in the stands according to social status.
In the arena there were gladiator fights, hunts of animals brought from various parts of the empire and public executions. Beneath the floor lay the hypogeum, a network of corridors, cages and lifts that brought men and beasts up to the arena. Part of the floor has been rebuilt, and from above you can see this structure.
After the games ended, the Coliseu was shaken by earthquakes and used as a quarry: much of the marble and travertine ended up in churches and palaces in Rome. The holes in the outer walls are the marks of metal clamps torn out in the Middle Ages.
The standard ticket is valid for the first two levels of the stands and includes the Foro Romano and the Palatino. There are tickets that add the arena and the undergrounds. Tickets are nominal, with a scheduled time, and the photo ID is checked at the entrance.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One and a half to two hours just for the Coliseu. If you add the Foro Romano and the Palatino, book a full day or at least half a day.
Best time
The earliest morning slot usually has fewer people and cooler temperatures. From June to August, avoid midday. Late-afternoon light is good for photos from outside.
How to get there
Metro line B, Colosseo station, which exits in front of the amphitheatre. From the historic center you can walk via the Via dei Fori Imperiali, starting at Piazza Venezia.
Tip
Book on the official website in advance, especially from April to October, and bring the same ID used to purchase. Large backpacks are not allowed. Bring water: there are drinking fountains in the area.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Colosseo
Do I need to book the Coliseu?
Yes. The ticket is nominal and timed. Buy through the official website in advance, especially in high season, and bring photo ID, which is checked at the entrance.
Does the Coliseu ticket include the Foro Romano?
The standard ticket includes the Coliseu, the Foro Romano and the Palatino. There are ticket types that add the arena and the underground areas. Check what each ticket covers before purchasing.
Can you enter the arena and the undergrounds?
Yes, with specific tickets that include the arena and the hypogeum, the corridors beneath the floor. Availability is limited and they usually sell out in advance.
How long does a visit to the Coliseu take?
About one and a half to two hours in the amphitheatre. With the Foro Romano and the Palatino, allow half a day or more.