The stadium was originally called the Flavius Amphitheater because construction began under Emperor Vespasian during the Flavian dynasty. The venue was later opened by his son Titus. Although the Colosseum is the largest amphitheater within the historic boundaries of the Roman Empire, the name comes from a famous 114-foot statue that stood near the stadium for many years. This colossal statue of Emperor Nero was destroyed completely. The pedestal and statue’s foundation are the only remaining pieces.
The iconic Colosseum stadium can be explored with a guide or on a self-guided tour. Allow at least two hours to experience the history, ambiance and culture that the Colosseum represents. During the summer months, ticket lines can be quite long. Prepare to spend some time purchasing tickets. Visitors can also travel to another ticketing office located on Palatine Hill to bypass long lines at the Colosseum.
Tickets to this historic site cost €12 for a one-day pass. That includes admission to eight important tourist attractions, including the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, historic baths, catacombs and several museums. Visitors also have the option of purchasing a multi-day Roma Pass that grants access to all public transportation systems within the city.
The Colosseum is located along the Piazza del Colosseo in an eponymous district within the heart of Rome. It can be reached by bus, by tram or on the subway. Local metro stations at the Colosseo put visitors conveniently close to the attraction’s main entrance. More than 4.5 million visitors tour this historic site every year. The iconic amphitheater opens daily at 9 a.m. During the summer, tours continue until 7 p.m. When tourist traffic is lower in the winter, the ticketing office closes at 4 p.m.
Discounted tickets are available to citizens of the European Union who are over 65, under 18 or work as teachers. Due to recent flooding, access to subterranean areas of the Colosseum has been restricted. However, visitors still have ample access to many levels of the iconic amphitheater.
