No visit to Rome is complete without a visit to ancient Rome’s most famous site, the Roman Colosseum. As one of the most recognized landmarks in the world, the Colosseum stands today as an iconic symbol of ancient imperial Rome.

Commissioned in 72 AD by emperor Vespasian and completed by his son Titus in 80 AD, the Colosseum has withstood devastating earthquakes, fires, and stone-robbers over the centuries. Despite being in near constant use for over 1900 years, the structure is incredibly well preserved.

Today, the partially restored Colosseum is one of the most visited sites in all of Rome. In 1980, the historic center of Rome including the Colosseum was added as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In 2001, the Roman Colosseum was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, a distinction that is certainly justified.