Past: Colosseum (c. 70 – 72 CE)
Contrary to popular belief, the Colosseum was not the most popular arena in ancient Rome. The Circus Maximus held that title, as the chariot arena on the nearby Palatine Hill. Yet the legend of the Colosseum has eclipsed the Circus Maximus, in part due to how much of the building remains for people to explore, and in no small part due to the notorious gladiator bloodshed associated with the building. Architecturally, the Coliseum is a unique piece of art. Instead of using a single classical architectural order, it uses all of them, a different one on each level. The building’s arrangement looks much like modern arenas; ticket holders went to a numbered gate, then up to their specified levels and seat sections. Those attending the Gladiator combat games could enjoy refreshments and had access to restrooms. The Colosseum wouldn’t be out of place for modern sporting events.
