The Colosseum is an elliptical amphitheatre in the center of Rome, Italy. The Colosseum was mostly used as the arena for gladiatorial games and events. It was also used for mock sea battles, hunting animals, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Classical mythology.
The construction of the Colosseum started around the years 70-72 A.D. under the rule of Emperor Vespasian. The Colosseum was completed by the time of Vespasian’s death in 80 A.D. The Colosseum was a free standing structure, unlike most amphitheaters which were built into hillsides. The Colosseum has 3 levels, is elliptical in design, and stands 157 feet tall.