# The Colosseum, Rome, Italy

The Colosseum is the great oval amphitheater in the center of Rome where gladiators once fought for their lives and the pleasure of the crowd. The largest amphitheater ever built, it was constructed from sand and stone over eight years, from 72 to 80 CE. The colossal structure could hold 80,000 spectators, arranged in a circular ring around the central stage. Dramatic and sometimes horrifying events took place here, not just gladiatorial games but also Classical plays, animal hunts, and executions. Some say water was even pumped into the arena to enact mock sea battles known as naumachia. [1]

1. ^

   What Are the 7 Wonders of the World? (with HD Images) | TheCollector