Inside The Colosseum: Everything You Need To See

The Gate of Death, also known as the "Porta Libitinensis," was a foreboding entrance within the Colosseum. This ominous portal marked the point where gladiators, prisoners, and wild animals entered the arena, often destined for a brutal and deadly confrontation.

Also known as The Hypogeum is where the gladiators and the animals would prep up before the fierce fights. Think of this route as a set of secret and dark tunnels. The underground area is divided into 2 levels of tunnels and 36 animal pens where the exotic animals imported from around the world were kept. You’ll also spot an elevator and enhanced door traps that were recovered during the restoration.

At the lowest level of the seating arrangement, close to the arena, was the podium. This section was exclusively reserved for the most elite members of Roman society, including senators, emperors, and high-ranking officials. The podium offered the best views of the events unfolding in the arena.

The Roman Forum, a captivating archaeological site located in the heart of Rome, stands as a mesmerizing testament to the glory and grandeur of the ancient Roman civilization. Serving as the bustling center of political, religious, and commercial activities in ancient times, the Forum remains an iconic symbol of Rome's rich history and cultural heritage.

You can access the third level via a set of stairs at the second floor. The third floor opened to the public only after the first session of the restoration. Back then, it was reserved for seatings for the not so privileged people as it was the furthest from the ground. These mainly included slaves and women. Nonetheless, its outer space gives an amazing view of the city

It’s here where the gladiators once stood and fought. Covered with 15 cms of sand, most of the Arena wooden flooring was abolished by the archaeologists. However, they’ve retrieved a part of it to give the visitors a feel of how the battlefield was back then. From here you can get an amazing panoramic view of the amphitheater.

The Gladiator's Gate, known as the "Porta Sanavivaria" or "Gate of the Living," was a significant entry point inside the Colosseum of ancient Rome. It was through this gate that the gladiators made their entrance into the arena, ready to engage in fierce combat that would captivate the roaring crowds.

The Cross inside the Colosseum is a symbol of hope and redemption. Erected to commemorate the Christian martyrs who met their fate in the arena's brutal events, the cross serves as a poignant reminder of the spiritual transformation that occurred within the Colosseum's bloody history.

Tucked between the between Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was the venue for most political, religious and social gatherings in Rome. This outdoor iconic landmark houses an array of ancient ruins including Basilica of Maxentius, Temple of Romulus, Antoninus and Faustina temple, Roman forum, Basilica Emilia, Temple of Saturn, Temple of Vespasian and Titus, Temple of Saturn, etc. The walk begins at the Arch of Titus.

The centermost and the most popular of the seven hills of Rome, Palatine Hills was considered to be the most affluent neighbourhood that housed most emperors and aristocrats. It’s located 40 meters above the Roman Forum, it’s an open-air museum that displays the remains of the palaces and villas dating back to the Roman Empire. While you take a walk, look out for landmarks like Aqua Claudia Aqueduct, Domus Severiana, Circus Maximus, Flavian Palace, Palace of Tiberius (garden area), Temple of Jupiter etc.