The Colosseum is one of the most iconic and impressive monuments of ancient Rome. It was the largest amphitheater ever built and could host up to 80,000 spectators who came to watch gladiator fights, animal hunts, executions, and other spectacles. The Colosseum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the eternal city.
There are many things to do and see in and around the Colosseum, but here are some of the best ones:
Explore the interior of the Colosseum and learn about its history, architecture, and secrets. You can join a guided tour, an audio tour, or a virtual reality tour to enhance your experience. You can also visit the underground level, where the gladiators and animals were kept before the shows, and the upper level, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the arena and the surroundings. Book your tickets online to avoid long queues and save time.
Admire the Arch of Constantine, a triumphal arch dedicated to the emperor who legalized Christianity in the Roman Empire. It is located next to the Colosseum and is decorated with reliefs and statues from earlier monuments. The arch commemorates Constantine’s victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD. Learn more about the arch.
Visit the Domus Aurea, the remains of the lavish palace that emperor Nero built for himself after the great fire of Rome in 64 AD. The palace covered a large area of the city and included gardens, fountains, artificial lakes, and a colossal statue of Nero. The palace was later buried by subsequent emperors who wanted to erase Nero’s memory. Today, you can explore some of the rooms and admire the frescoes and mosaics that have survived. You can also experience a 3D reconstruction of the palace with a special headset. Book your visit in advance as access is limited.
Walk along the Via Sacra, the main street of ancient Rome that connected the Colosseum with the Roman Forum. The street was lined with temples, basilicas, shops, and houses of important citizens. You can see some of the traces of these buildings as you walk along the cobblestones that have witnessed centuries of history. Discover more about the Via Sacra.
Explore the Palatine Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome, and the site where Romulus founded the city according to legend. The hill was also the home of emperors, aristocrats, and priests who built their palaces and temples there. You can see some of the ruins of these structures, such as the House of Augustus, the House of Livia, the Stadium of Domitian, and the Temple of Apollo. You can also enjoy a beautiful view of Rome from the hill. [Find out more about the Palatine Hill].
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