History of the Colosseum
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an oval amphitheatre in the centre of the city of Rome, Italy. It is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, and is still the largest standing amphitheatre in the world.
Construction began under the emperor Vespasian in AD 72 and was completed in AD 80 under his successor and heir, Titus. Further modifications were made during the reign of Domitian (81–96AD). The three emperors are known as the Flavian dynasty, and the amphitheatre was named in Latin for its association with their family name (Flavius).
The Colosseum is situated just east of the Roman Forum. Its construction began under the emperor Vespasian in around AD 70–72 and was completed in AD 80 under his successor and heir, Titus. Further modifications were made during the reign of Domitian (81–96 AD). It could hold an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 spectators at various points in its history having an average audience of 65,000; it was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles including animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Classical mythology.