The Colosseum has survived through the centuries and remains one of the most recognizable images of Rome.

The largest of its kind in the Roman world, is a symbol of the power and splendour of the Roman Empire

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1. The Colosseum's original Latin name was 'Amphitheatrum Flavium.

The building became known as the Colosseum because of a colossal statue of Nero that once stood nearby.

2. Its construction begun sometime between 70 and 72 a.C during the reign of Vespasian.

The funding for building the Colosseum came from Vespasian's war spoils against Judea and the capture of Jerusalem.

3. The Colosseum is located on what had been a large, artificial lake within the complex of the Domus Aurea, a massive palace constructed by Nero.

What land Nero had taken to construct an extravagant pleasure palace was reclaimed by Vespasian for the people of Rome.

4. Lavish Hundred-Day Games were held to mark the inauguration of the building in Titu's reign (Vespasian's son), including a mock naval battle and gladiatorial contests,

Up to 55,000 spectators could be seated in its terraces.

5. The final stages of construction of the Colosseum were completed under Titus’ successor, his brother Domitian.

Roman authors explain that the Colosseum could accommodate 87,000 people, although modern estimates put the figure at around 50,000.

6. The largest gladiator training school in Rome was next to the Colosseum: the Ludus Magnus.

Gladiators from across the Roman Empire would live, eat and practice there.

7. Awnings were unfurled from the top story in order to protect the audience from the hot Roman sun as they watched gladiatorial combats