Timeline of the Colosseum’s
History
Natural Pond
Before human settlement, the valley where the Colosseum now stands was a natural pond formed by waters from surrounding hills.
Republican Rome
The Romans drained the valley and built houses, public buildings, and temples, turning the area into a significant urban center.
Great Fire under Nero
A massive fire ravages Rome, leading Emperor Nero to construct the Domus Area with an artificial lake in the valley.
Construction Begins
Emperor Vespasian reclaims the land from Nero's lake and initiates the construction of the Colosseum.
Early Construction Phase
Building of the first and second tiers begins. The elliptical structure of the travertine stone takes shape.
Structural Advancements
Work progresses on the upper tiers, incorporating vaults and arches. Construction of the hypogeum (underground chambers) begins.
Final Touches Under Vespasian
The first two tiers are completed. The decorative elements are added. Vespasian dies in 79 AD.
Inauguration
Emperor Titus inaugurates the Colosseum with 100 days of games after completing the third and fourth tiers.
Completion by Domitian
Domitian completes the Colosseum's structure, adding the hypogeum, which are underground chambers for animals and gladiators.
First Reconstruction
Emperor Antoninus Pius carried out repairs after a fire that damaged the Colosseum and surrounding buildings.
Fire and Repairs
A lightning strike causes a fire, leading to significant damage. Reconstruction begins under Emperor Macrinus and continues for 30 years.
Repairs Completed
Under Emperor Gordian III, the Colosseum's restoration is completed, commemorated by coins depicting the restored structure.
Lightning Strike and Repairs
Another lightning strike damages the Colosseum. Emperor Decius oversees the necessary repairs.
Earthquake Hits Rome
A catastrophic earthquake affects Rome and its provinces, causing further damage to the Colosseum.
Last Gladiatorial Games
Emperor Honorius bans gladiatorial combats, marking the end of this era in the Colosseum's history.
Visigoth Sack
The Visigoths sack Rome. The Colosseum is abandoned and later used as a burial site during the sieges.
Repairs Post-Visigoth Sack
Praefectus Urbi Iunius Valerius Bellicius undertakes restorations after the Visigothic invasion.
Earthquake and Restoration
A disastrous earthquake hits Rome. Praefectus Urbi Rufius Cecina Felix Lampadius funds repairs on the arena and terraces.
Vandal Sack
The Vandals sack Rome. The Colosseum suffers further damage during the 15-day plundering.
Final Ancient Restorations
Praefectus Urbi Decius Marius Venantius Basilius oversees the last recorded ancient restorations, including filling the arena.
Last Animal Hunts
The final venationes, or staged animal hunts, are held in the Colosseum, ending its use for public spectacles.
Major Earthquake
A severe earthquake under Pope Leo IV causes extensive damage, further degrading the Colosseum.
Frangipane Occupation
The powerful Frangipane family takes control of the Colosseum, using it as a fortified residence.
Devastating Earthquake
An earthquake collapses the Colosseum's southern side. The materials are later reused for other constructions.
Religious Brotherhood Ownership
The Arciconfraternita del SS. Salvatore ad Sancta Sanctorum obtains part of the Colosseum and begins selling its materials.
Sacred Site Declaration
Pope Benedict XIV declares the Colosseum a sacred site, protecting it from further destruction and initiating restorations.
Major Restoration Efforts
Raffaele Stern and Giuseppe Valadier lead significant restoration efforts to stabilize and conserve the Colosseum.
Excavation and Use by Mussolini
Mussolini's regime excavates the hypogeum and uses the Colosseum as a backdrop for Fascist parades and rallies.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Colosseum is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
Euro Coin Symbol
The Colosseum is depicted on the Italian 5-cent euro coin, symbolizing its enduring legacy.
New7Wonders
The Colosseum is voted one of the New7Wonders of the World, affirming its global importance and appeal.
Restoration Sponsorship
Diego Della Valle, head of Tod's, sponsors a €25 million restoration project. The controversial public-private partnership causes delays.
First Stage Completed
The restoration of the façade and ground-level arches has been completed. Plans to replace the floors for cultural events have been announced.
Upper Levels Opened
The top two levels of the Colosseum are open for guided visits. They showcase the marketplace and areas where plebeians once gathered.
COVID-19 Impact
The pandemic reduces visitor numbers due to travel restrictions and lockdowns, but maintenance and conservation efforts continue.
Record Visitors
The Colosseum attracts over 12 million visitors. Culture minister Gennaro Sangiuliano announces this during an Easter visit.