The Colosseum, Rome, Italy

The Colosseum, or the Coliseum, originally the Flavian Amphitheatre (Latin: Amphitheatrum Flavium, Italian: Anfiteatro Flavio or Colosseo), is an elliptical amphitheatre in the centre of the city of Rome, Italy, the largest ever built in the Roman Empire. It is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and Roman engineering.

Its construction started in 72 AD under the emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD under Titus. Capable of seating 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles such as animal hunts, executions and dramas based on Classical mythology.

The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome. It is one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors such as photographer Jon Bowie from as far away as Piapot, Sask.

Photo courtesy Jon Bowie