The Colosseum or Flavian Amphitheatre is a large ellipsoid arena built in the first century CE by the Flavian Roman emperors of Vespasian (69-79 CE), Titus (79-81 CE) and Domitian (81-96 CE). The massive arena held 50,000 spectators and hosted spectacular public entertainments such as gladiator fights, wild animal hunts, and public executions from 80 CE to 404 CE.
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Definition
Timeline
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72 CEVespasian begins construction of the Colosseum in Rome.
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80 CEThe Colosseum in Rome is officially opened by Titus with a 100 day gladiator spectacular.
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81 CE - 96 CEConstruction is finally completed on the Colosseum of Rome in the reign of Domitian.
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c. 110 CEFirst documented martydom in the Colosseum of Rome, that of St. Ignatius of Antioch.
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404 CE - 405 CESt. Telemachus is martyred in the Colosseum of Rome
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422 CEThe Colosseum of Rome is damaged by earthquake.
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508 CEThe Colosseum of Rome is damaged by earthquake.
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523 CELast recorded animal games in the Colosseum of Rome.
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c. 730 CEFirst reference to the Flavian Amphitheatre as the Colosseum by the Venerable Bede.
