The Amphitheatrum Flavium (Colosseum)
Built between the years 72-80 c. AD, the name Colosseum was given to the structure in lieu of Nero's 120 foot tall colossus (Colossus Neronis) only after 1000 AD, and still stands today as the much beloved Icon of Ancient Rome. It's construction mirrors the Jewish War waged by Vespasian and later continued by his son Titus during the years 66-73 AD, and many theories abound as to who helped create the massive edifice. The structure is replete with an impressive array of cells and chambers, arches, secret alleyways and entrances for Emperors and Vestal Virgins, arcades, seating arrangements, and more. Just near the Colosseum was the training ground for gladiators-The Ludus Magnus or 'Great School.' Originally, gladiators (from gladius-latin for 'sword') trained within areas owned by affluent people, though later it was felt that Imperial state manage the gladiators to protect against the creating of gladiator armies. Various games and events were held here, and besides bloodshed, the Romans created elaborate stage sets using exotic plants from foreign lands-so much so that in the 19th century, over 400 species of plant were documented to have been growing there! But what would interest the medieval and modern pilgrim alike, is not the blood of the gladiator, but the blood of the saint, sanctifying the hedonistic amphitheatre into a sacred shrine. The Colosseum is a must see for everyone!