Rome’s Colosseum, Forum, and Catacombs

DSC_0667The remains of the infamous Roman Colosseum with its 80 arched entrances allowed easy access to house over 50,000 spectators. In its day, the Colosseum DSC_0557staged deadly combats between gladiators and wild animal fights for the enjoyment of the viewing public. The Roman gladiators were usually slaves, prisoners of war or condemned criminals who were literally fighting for their lives. The Colosseum, constructed in 72 A.D. was said to be the largest ever built in the Roman Empire. Despite the passage of time, you can see why it was considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture.

Moving from one of the largest monuments in the City of Rome, DSC_0789we took a road trip to visit the Catacombs of San Callisto. In ancient Roman times, no one was allowed to be buried within the walls of the city and there are a variety of catacombs scattered outside the ancient walls of Rome. Danielle and I were not as adventurous and chose to wait above ground, while Shannon and Austin took in the tour.

With all of us back above ground, we toured the Roman Forum – the DSC_0757place where commerce, business, and the administration of justice took place in ancient times. The Forum is filled with statues and impressive architecture which would have created a spectacular backdrop for the historic public speeches which were held there.DSC_0683

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