http://powerofpositivity.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/colosseum-rome-europe2.jpg
THE COLOSSEUM
(AMPHITHEATRUM FLAVIUM)
By Chad Yip
Location
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Rome
Located in the region IV: Templum Pacis
(Temple of Peace)
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/91/Municipi
_di_Roma.svg/375px-Municipi_di_Roma.svg.png
Origins of the Colosseum
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Built: 70-80 AD
Built by Vespasian, but completed under his son
Titus.
Funded by the spoils taken from the Jewish Temple
after the Siege of Jerusalem.
Colosseum was to be the showpiece of the new
Flavian dynasty of Vespasian and his sons.
Site was chosen because it was a flat area between
the Caelian, Esquiline, and Palatine Hills.
Importance
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The Colosseum can be interpreted as a great
triumphal monument in the tradition of celebrating
victories. (over Great Jewish Revolt in 70 AD)
Pleased the Roman people instead of returning
soldiers.
Constructed in the heart of Rome at the city centre,
unlike many other amphitheatres.
Over 9,000 wild animals were killed in the
inaugural games.
Uses of the Colosseum
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Used to host gladiatorial shows as well as a variety of other
events.
Shows (munera): given by private individuals
 Demonstration of power and prestige
 Immensely popular
Animal Hunts (venatio):
 Hunting wild beasts imported from Africa and the Middle
East
Recreations of Nature scenes (sylvae):
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Nature scenes such as forests were replicated with real animals and plants.
Used to display natural environment for urban population, or as a backdrop for
hunts and dramas.
Damage
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In 217 AD the Colosseum was damaged in a major
fire which destroyed its upper levels.
Was not fully repaired until 240 AD, and continued
to suffer damage from other natural disasters such
as earthquakes.
Used throughout the centuries despite its age.
The Colosseum Today
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/18/Binnenzijde_Colosseum.jpg
The Colosseum in Ancient Times
http://www.bible-history.com/archaeology/rome/colosseum-sketch-piranesi-19.jpg
Bibliography
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http://romancolosseum.org/roman-colosseum-history/
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http://www.rome.info/colosseum/
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http://www.the-colosseum.net/idx-en.htm
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http://www.aviewoncities.com/rome/colosseo.htm
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http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/romans/colosseum_01.shtml
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http://www.italyguides.it/us/roma/colosseum.htm
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http://www.history.com/topics/colosseum