The Colosseum

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Architecture of the ancient Roman Empire is one of the most fascinating of all time. The city of Rome once housed more than one million residents. The Romans made great use of many architectural shapes like arches and columns. Using these they were able to build monstrous buildings of worship, entertainment and other services. The one building that comes in mind over the centuries, when you think of Rome is The Amphitheatrum Flavium or The Coloseum.

The Coloseum was built by Hebrew prisoners and slaves. Details of the actual construction are unknown. The framework of piers, arches, linked walls and vaults were constructed with travertine blocks. In order to support the great weight of the structure the cement post had to have gone deep into the earth. Constructed of tufa or pumice were the lower levels. The upper floors were constructed with brick and concrete.

The arena floor inside the Coloseum was made of wooden planks and was covered with sand to soak up all the blood from the horrific events. A huge podium made of marble was used to seat the people of high rank or position. More marble seats above that were private citizens. Next came the middle class. The step of seats held the slaves and foreigners. The last levels of seats were made of wooden were occupied by women and the poor. Separating the guests and the residents of Rome from the bloody carnage is a 15 feet high wall above the surface of the arena fl...

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