Colosseum or the Flavian Amphitheatre is a huge amphitheater that was built in Rome between 70 and 72 BC. It was constructed during the rule of Vespasian, a Roman emperor of the Flavian dynasty. The magnificent structure is located just east of the Palatine Hill.
The Colosseum, said to be the biggest amphitheatre in the entire Roman Empire, could house around sixty thousand spectators. Structurally, it was an oval or round building that had rising levels of seats arranged around a central open space. This space called the arena was meant for staging entertainment, gladiator fights etc.
However, in medieval times the Colosseum was damaged by lightning and earthquake. It was also largely vandalized, as a result of which its marble seats and decorative materials disappeared. The building was subsequently used as a place to house animals and slaves. The Serious efforts to preserve the majestic construction were made only in the 19th century.