The Roman Coliseum

We always admire great structures of the past. It’s amazing that without modern technology these huge, intricate buildings could be erected. The Roman Coliseum is an example of these ancient structures. Building of the Coliseum began c. 72 AD by Emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD by Vespasian’s son Titus. The name “coliseum” came to be because the Coliseum was next to a colossal statue of Nero. The original name of the huge …

…The Coliseum has stood for a very long time and has endured earthquakes, time, and battles. Unfortunately vibration from automobiles is threatening to make the walls crumble. Police in Rome have ordered that traffic be detoured around the Coliseum. Six of the original 200 columns are still standing today. The Coliseum is a huge part of our history and we need to keep it in as good of condition as we can. (National Geographic Society p. 451)