Page 109 - RPG's Italian Work Experience

Colosseum

It is the most famous Roman monument, considered the very
symbol of Rome's eternity. It was started by Vespasian around 72
AD and inaugurated by Titus in 80. It was intended for public

performances and above all for gladiator and beast fights, which
lasted until the sixth century. Severely damaged by earthquakes, it
was transformed into a fortress in the Middle Ages and became a
stone quarry during the Renaissance period. The stripping ceased

in 1700 by Benedict XIV and after him various Popes provided for
repair and support works. The grandiose monument has the shape

of an ellipse, with the major axis of 188 m., The minor one of 156 m.
and the circumference of 527 m.

The exterior appears intact on the north-east side and has 3 orders

of arches that measure a total of 57 m. The arena where the shows
took place measures 76x46 m. and the auditorium was divided
into 3 tiers of tiers, each reserved for knights, citizens and people