Potted History
Known as the Flavian Ampitheatre after the dynasty of emperors that were responsible for the building. Started by Vespasian in the first century AD, it was constructed on land that Nero had acquired for his Golden House. In a shrewd political move, Vespasian was seen to be giving back to the people what had been taken away from them after the great fire of 64AD.
The name 'colosseum' was derived from the colossal statue of Nero that stood on this site and the first mention of it is in a chronicle attributed to the Venerable Bede, who quotes the proverb "As long as the Colosseum stands, so will Rome; when Rome falls, so will the world"
 |
| Bank of Canada Museum |
Best View
I always suggest arriving on the Metro B train as the view as you leave the station is truly awesome. Even better is to take the stairs up before exiting, for an elevated view.
Another great viewpoint is from the back of the Vittorio Emanuele monument (on the first level, no need to pay to go in the glass lift)
Best Tour
Without doubt the 'Colosseum, Underground & Third Ring' offered by CO OP Culture, the official booking site for the Colosseum and other major monuments. The cost for the tour is €9 + €12 entrance fee (under 18's don't pay the entrance fee) Even better is that you can now book online. See photos below for a taste of the tour.
Where to Eat
Pizzeria Le Carette, Via Madonna dei Monti 95 (open daily for dinner all year. In summer open for lunch too , apart from Wednesdays)
One of our favourite neighbourhood pizzerias. Head here for thin crust Roman pizza, fresh from the wood burning oven, preceded by fritti. Wash down with a jug of wine or birra alla spina.
Of course, if you really wanted to push the boat out, you could dine at Aroma for divine food and THE best view of the Colosseum from your table.
