Inside The Colosseum, Rome

The arena of the Colosseum inside was the central space where the games and shows took place. The arena was oval in shape and measured 76 meters by 44 meters. The surface of the arena was made of wood covered with sand and was able to be flooded to reenact naval battles. The arena was surrounded by a barrier, known as the podium, which separated the spectators from the action. An arena is a place where numerous conflicts have occurred, resulting in the demise of numerous gladiators in Colosseum and war criminals. 

The hypogeum of the Colosseum Rome inside was an underground system of tunnels and chambers used to store equipment and animals, as well as to transport them to the arena. The hypogeum also served as a backstage area for the gladiators and performers, allowing them to enter and exit the arena unseen. The hypogeum was a complex system of elevators, ramps, and pulleys, allowing for the efficient movement of people and animals.

Also Checkout: Colosseum Tickets

The Colosseum had trap doors on the arena floor that were used to release animals and performers into the arena. The trap doors were operated by a system of ropes and pulleys and were often used to create dramatic and unexpected entrances. The trap doors were also used to remove debris and dead bodies from the arena floor. The construction of these structures was carried out by Domitian, the younger brother of King Titus, who was also responsible for the creation of the entire Hypogeum. In total, there were 36 trap doors built to cage all kinds of wild animals.

Also Read: Roman Forum

The first tier of the Colosseum inside was reserved for the wealthiest and most important spectators, such as politicians, senators, and other VIPs. The first tier had the best views of the action and was separated from the lower classes by a barrier. The first tier had a covered seating area to protect the spectators from the sun and rain and had access to private rooms for refreshments and other amenities.

Must Read: Things to Do Near Colosseum Rome

The second tier of the Colosseum Rome inside was reserved for the middle class and merchants. The second tier was also covered and provided good views of the action. The second tier had its own entrance and exit and was separated from the first tier by a barrier. Visitors can climb to the second tier and see the panoramic view of the Colosseum. It’s highly recommended that you visit this area, as there is a wealth of information to be gained about the ancient city of Rome.

Recommended Read: Plan Your Visit to The Colosseum Rome

Inside the Colosseum, there is a third tier which was reserved for the lower class and common people. The third tier was uncovered and provided the least desirable views of the action and was also separated from the first and second tiers by a barrier and had its own entrance and exit. Despite being the least desirable, the third tier was still a popular place for spectators, as it was the most affordable seating option.

Suggested Read: Colosseum Rome Facts

The Gladiator's Gate earned its name from being the entry point for gladiators to enter the arena for combat. It is situated on the arena floor, directly above the Hypogeum where wild animals were caged to fight against the gladiators. In the past, the Gladiator's Gate was not accessible to the general public. However, nowadays, visitors can pass through the gate and emerge onto the stands, allowing them to imagine a roaring crowd cheering them on within the entire arena.

You May Also Like: Colosseum History

Before the construction of the Colosseum began, King Vespasius collaborated with architects, builders, and engineers to plan its design. The result was a remarkable feat of engineering, allowing for quick entry and exit of spectators within 15 minutes before and after the annual games. Meanwhile, three entrances were exclusively reserved for nobility, and the remaining gate led directly to the Emperor's Box, reserved for the king, his family, and council members. This privileged area provided the best view of the arena and was honored with a cross laid by the Pope in the 16th century in commemoration of the Christian martyrs who perished there.

Book Now: Colosseum Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour