Unveiling the Colosseum’s True Identity: More Than Just a Nickname
The Colosseum, that iconic symbol of ancient Rome, has a formal name that often gets overshadowed by its more popular moniker. The Colosseum’s real name is the Flavian Amphitheater (Amphitheatrum Flavium in Latin). This name connects the structure directly to the Flavian Dynasty, the imperial family that commissioned and oversaw its construction.
The Story Behind the Name
The Flavian Emperors
The Flavian Dynasty consisted of three emperors: Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian. Vespasian initiated the building of the amphitheater around 70-72 AD, aiming to provide a grand public entertainment venue for the Roman people. This was a strategic move to solidify the Flavian Dynasty’s legitimacy after the tumultuous reign of Nero and the subsequent civil war. Vespasian sadly died before its completion, but his son Titus completed the initial structure and inaugurated it with lavish games in 80 AD. Domitian, Titus’s brother, later made further modifications and additions to the amphitheater.
Why “Flavian Amphitheater”?
The name “Flavian Amphitheater” is a straightforward tribute to the dynasty that brought it into existence. It was common practice in ancient Rome to name significant buildings and public works after the emperors who commissioned them. This act served as a testament to their power, generosity, and contribution to the glory of Rome.
From Flavian Amphitheater to Colosseum: The Rise of a Nickname
While the official name was the Flavian Amphitheater, the name “Colosseum” eventually gained prominence. The origin of this nickname is linked to a colossal statue of Nero. This massive bronze statue, initially depicting Nero as the sun god Sol, stood near the amphitheater. Later emperors modified the statue, and it became a landmark so closely associated with the amphitheater that the structure itself gradually adopted the name “Colosseum.” This nickname reflects the monumentality of the amphitheater itself and the awe it inspired. This historical context underscores the value of engaging with the past through experiences such as those explored by the Games Learning Society community. You can explore their work further at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Colosseum
1. Was the Colosseum always called the Colosseum?
No. The original name was the Flavian Amphitheater, which was given in honor of the Flavian Dynasty. The nickname Colosseum came later due to the massive statue of Nero located nearby.
2. When did people start calling it the Colosseum?
The exact timing is uncertain, but the name “Colosseum” became increasingly common in later antiquity and the early Middle Ages. By the 8th century AD, the name Colosseum was well-established.
3. Who really built the Colosseum?
The Colosseum was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian Dynasty, and he began construction around 70-72 AD. The project was completed by his son, Emperor Titus, in 80 AD, with further modifications made by Emperor Domitian. The actual construction was carried out by a vast workforce of laborers, engineers, skilled artisans, and, notably, a significant number of Jewish slaves captured during the Jewish-Roman wars.
4. How old is the Colosseum?
Construction began in 72 AD and was completed in 80 AD, making the Colosseum over 1,900 years old.
5. What events were held at the Colosseum?
The Colosseum was used for a variety of public spectacles, including gladiatorial combats, animal hunts (venationes), public executions, mock naval battles (naumachiae, in the early years when the arena could be flooded), and dramas based on classical mythology.
6. How many gladiators died in the Colosseum?
Estimates suggest that around 400,000 people and countless animals died in the Colosseum during its use for entertainment over nearly 400 years.
7. Is any of the Colosseum original?
Approximately one-third of the original structure remains today. Over the centuries, earthquakes, stone-robbing, and neglect have taken their toll.
8. Who owns the Colosseum today?
The Italian government owns the Colosseum. It is a major tourist attraction and is actively managed and preserved by the state, often with the support of private funding for restoration projects.
9. Was the Colosseum ever buried?
The hypogeum, the underground structure beneath the arena floor, was buried under approximately 40 feet of earth and debris by the early 19th century. Excavations were later conducted to uncover this fascinating part of the Colosseum’s history.
10. Was the Colosseum made by Greece?
No, the Colosseum is located in Rome, Italy, and was built by the ancient Romans.
11. Did Greece have gladiators?
While athletic competitions were popular in ancient Greece, gladiatorial combat originated in Italy, particularly among the Etruscans. The practice was later adopted and popularized by the Romans. While gladiatorial games did spread throughout the Roman Empire, including its Greek territories, they were not a native Greek tradition.
12. What do Italians call the Colosseum?
In Italian, the Colosseum is called Colosseo.
13. What was the Colosseum used for?
The Colosseum was primarily used for public entertainment, including gladiatorial contests, wild animal hunts, public executions, and theatrical performances based on classical myths. At one point, the arena was flooded to stage mock naval battles.
14. Is the Colosseum older than the Pyramids?
No, the Pyramids of Giza are significantly older than the Colosseum. The pyramids were built thousands of years before the Colosseum.
15. What is older than the Colosseum?
The Greek Parthenon is older than the Colosseum. The Parthenon was completed around 432 BCE, while the Colosseum wasn’t finished until 80 CE.
Understanding the Colosseum’s historical context allows for a deeper appreciation of this enduring monument, bridging its original purpose as a venue for spectacular displays with its modern role as a testament to Roman ingenuity and the enduring power of historical narratives.