Without saying, you must recognize the picture above is Coliseum that is an elliptical amphitheatre in the centre of the city of Rome, the largest ever built in the Roman Empire. It is one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and Roman engineering. Its construction began between 70 and 72 AD under the emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD under Titus. Thus, it has another name, "Amphitheatrum Flavium", derived from both Vespasian's and Titus's family name.

Inside the Coliseum, you can see the Arena and hypogeum. The Arena comprises wooden floor covered by sand, and itself covers an elaborate underground structure called the hypogeum, that not like the Arena, is still clearly visible.

The hypogeum consists of a two-level underground network of tunnels and cages beneath the arena where gladiators and animals were kept before contests starts ( as the above picture shown). It is connected by underground tunnels to a number of points outside the Coliseum. Animals and performers were brought through the tunnel from nearby stables, with the gladiators' barracks at the Ludus Magnus to the east also being connected by tunnels.

There are also tunnels for the Emperor and the Vestal Virgins. They had privilege to enter and exit the Coliseum without needing to pass through the crowds.

Substantial quantities of machinery were used in the hypogeum, for instance, elevators and pulleys. They raised and lowered scenery and props, as well as lifting caged animals to the surface for release.

Although the entrance fee of the Coliseum is very expensive, it is worth visiting, especially to people who study Rome History and architecture. You will be bewitched by the splendor of Coliseum once you go inside.

I recommend you to travel Coliseum in spring and autumn as in summer (I visited there in June) is very hot and a peek season in Italy. Every famous scenic spot is filled with a crowd of people. You will feel like being in the market rather than at the impressive remains of Roman Times in Italy!

Here are some videos of Coliseum; I hope you enjoy watching them.

<

Reference Lists:

Wikipedia. (2008). Coliseum & Pictures. Retrieved from September, 21, 2008
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colosseum/div>div> /div>


Youtube (2008). Inside Colosseum. Retrieved from September, 21, 2008,

http://www.youtube.com/v/Uk9V_Ybo8hQ&amp



Youtube (2008). Hypogeum .Retrieved from September, 12,2008,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EO1NQy4oyJs