When to Visit the Colosseum: A Guide to the Colosseum

The Colosseum is undoubtedly the most iconic landmark in Rome, Italy. Millions of tourists flock to the Colosseum every year to witness its grandeur and history. However, planning a visit to the Colosseum can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time in Rome. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to know before visiting the Colosseum, including its history, facts, location, opening times, ticket prices, and the best time to visit.

Introduction to the Colosseum

The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an oval-shaped amphitheatre located in the heart of Rome, Italy. It is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and engineering. The Colosseum was built almost 2,000 years ago and was used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles. Today, it is a major tourist attraction and a symbol of Rome’s rich history and culture.

Brief history of Ancient Rome

Ancient Rome is one of the oldest and most influential civilizations in the world. It was founded in 753 BC by Romulus and Remus, twin brothers who were raised by a she-wolf. Rome was initially ruled by kings, but in 509 BC, the Roman Republic was established, which lasted for almost 500 years. The Roman Empire was then established by Julius Caesar in 27 BC, and it lasted until 476 AD when it was conquered by the Germanic tribes. Ancient Rome was known for its impressive architecture, engineering, military conquests, and cultural achievements.

Facts about the Colosseum

The Colosseum is a marvel of engineering and architecture. It was built in just eight years, from 72 AD to 80 AD, and could hold up to 80,000 spectators. The Colosseum is made of concrete and stone and has a height of 48 meters. It was used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles. The Colosseum is also the largest amphitheatre in the world.

Colosseum opening times and ticket prices

The Colosseum is open every day of the week, except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The Colosseum opening times vary depending on the season. The ticket prices for the Colosseum vary depending on the type of ticket you purchase.

The standard ticket costs €16, which includes access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. The reduced ticket costs €2, which is available for European Union citizens aged between 18 and 25 years. Children under 18 years of age and disabled visitors are entitled to free entry.

Best time to visit the Colosseum

The best time to visit the Colosseum is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This is because the Colosseum is less crowded during these times, and you can avoid the long queues. It is also recommended to visit the Colosseum during the off-season, which is from November to February, as there are fewer tourists and the weather is cooler.

What else to see in Rome

Rome is a city full of history, culture, and beauty. Apart from the Colosseum, there are plenty of other attractions to see in Rome, such as the Vatican Museums, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Rome is also known for its delicious cuisine, and you can find plenty of restaurants and cafes serving authentic Italian food.

Conclusion

The Colosseum is a must-visit attraction in Rome, Italy. It is a symbol of Rome’s rich history and culture and a marvel of engineering and architecture. By following this guide, you now have all the information you need to plan your visit to the Colosseum, including its history, facts, location, opening times, ticket prices, and the best time to visit. Don’t forget to explore the other attractions in Rome and indulge in its delicious cuisine.