Wide view looking up at the Roman Colosseum with Mouse Pad

AssetID: 97436203 / {Martin Child} / Wide view looking up at the Roman Colosseum with The Colosseum , or the Coliseum , originally the Flavian Amphitheatre (Latin : Amphitheatrum Flavium , Italian Anfiteatro Flavio or Colosseo ), is an elliptical amphitheatre in the centre of the city of Rome , Italy , the largest ever built in the Roman Empire . It is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and Roman engineering . Occupying a site just east of the Roman Forum , its construction started in 72 AD under the emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD under Titus , with further modifications being made during Domitian 's reign (81–96). The name "Amphitheatrum Flavium " derives from both Vespasian's and Titus's family name (Flavius , from the gens Flavia ). Capable of seating 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles such as mock sea battles, animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Classical mythology . The building ceased to be used for entertainment in the early medieval era. It was later reused for such purposes as housing, workshops, quarters for a religious order, a fortress , a quarry , and a Christian shrine. Although in the 21st century it stays partially ruined because of damage caused by devastating earthquakes and stone-robbers, the Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome . It is one of Rome's most popular tourist attractions and still has close connections with the Roman Catholic Church, as each Good Friday the Pope leads a torchlit "Way of the Cross" procession that starts in the area around the Colosseum. The Colosseum is also depicted on the Italian version of the five-cent euro coin . This page is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, anyone associated with the topic.