Rome's Colosseum

Colosseum's seating with lower chambers exposed

Throughout the first three centuries of the common era Rome's citizens swarmed into the Colosseum to enjoy elaborate games and entertainment the likes of which they had never before experienced. The party atmosphere must have been something like a present day blending of World Cup, Superbowl, Olympics, Barnum and Bailey Circus, Rock Concert and Cirque de Soleil. 

The producers of "The Gladiator" starring Russell Crowe captured the drama and the excitement of these games.  The undefeated champion, bloodied and dirtied by battle, stands at the center of the Colosseum.  He raises his arms and his sword.  The crowd jumps to its feet and erupts in chant:  "Maximus"  "Maximus" "Maximus."

Trajan's Arch depicts Jewish prisoners and Menorah  en route to Rome 

    
Emperor Vespasian began construction of the massive amphitheater in 70 AD.  He funded the project using the treasures of Jerusalem confiscated during Rome's conquest of the city and the destruction of its temple in 70 AD  (Rome's victory over Jerusalem is also commemorated on Trajan's arch, located near the Colosseum in the Roman Forum).  Vespasian used the "spoils of war" rather than additional taxes to fund the project and selected a building site he knew would thrill the people who, in turn, would grant him honor. 

Emperor Vespasian erected the Colosseum at the very place which, a decade earlier, had belonged to the people.  This area, future site of the Colosseum had once been largely residential.  This had been a vast neighborhood where people lived and raised their children.  But during the time of Emperor Nero a great fire consumed everything in its path.  The fire destroyed all of the housing.  After the fire? Emperor Nero elected not to rebuild homes.  Everyone had to find homes elsewhere.  Instead, he decided to use this area to honor himself.  The area became a large park dedicated to Nero.  And at it's center, Nero commissioned and placed a colossal statue bearing his own likeness. The area previously populated by Rome's citizens became Nero's personal domain.  Hail Caesar! Immanent Domain!
    
Emperor Vespasian did not follow in the footsteps of Nero.  Rather, he returned this place to the people, not as housing, but as the new entertainment center for Rome's citizens:  the Colosseum. This colossal amphitheater, completed in just ten years (80 AD), seated more than 50,000 people.  Here the people gathered to cheer gladiators, relive Rome's naval victories, gawk at never before seen animals returned from Africa with Rome's conquering armies. Here politicians and Senators sponsored special events  just prior to elections hoping to gain votes and influence.  Here enemies of the state fought lions and professional fighters ... and died. Here at the Colosseum Rome's citizens appeared one people even as they sat sectioned by class, rank, gender and wealth. Here Rome celebrated the empire's accomplishments.

Rome's world dominance did not last.  It's glory faded as did that of the Colosseum. After Rome fell to its enemies the arena became host to Rome's homeless, powerless and nameless.    

Today tourists crowd the Colosseum's stairwells and walkways snapping pictures with their cameras, Smartphones and pads.  And this summer I was among them.

As I stood for several minutes trying to take it all in I had four thoughts:  

1. what a magnificent and incredible place, tribute to Rome's greatness 
2. all glory is fleeting; like the laurel wreath given the victor it quickly withers 
3. enjoy every grand moment and savor it 
4. give thanks for the "invisible people" who (behind the scenes) make you look great; without them the crowd will never be shouting your name