Colosseum

The Colosseum or Coliseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre (Latin: Anfiteatro Flavio, Italian: Anfiteatro Flavio or Colosseo) is an elliptical amphitheater in the center of the city of Rome, Italy. Constructed of concrete and stone, [1] was the largest amphitheater in the Roman Empire, and is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and engineering. It is the largest amphitheater in the world. 

The Coliseum is located just east of the Roman Forum. Construction began under Emperor Vespasian in 70 AD and was completed in 80 AD under Titus his successor and heir. Other changes were made during the reign of Domitian (81-96). These three emperors are known as the Flavian dynasty, and the amphitheater was named in Latin by his association with his family name (Flavius​​). 

The Colosseum could hold, is estimated between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators, and was used for gladiatorial contests and public, such as mock sea battles, animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and theater performances based on classical mythology. The building ceased to be used for entertainment in the early medieval era. It was later reused for such purposes as housing, workshops, quarters for a religious order, a fortress, quarry and a Christian shrine. 

Although in the 21st century it stays partially ruined because of damage caused by devastating earthquakes and stone robbers, the Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome and has close relations with the Roman Catholic Church, as each Good Friday the Pope leads a "Via Crucis" torchlight procession that starts in the area around the Colosseum. 

In 2007 the complex was included among the 7 wonders of the world after a competition organized by New Open World Corporation (NOWC). 

The Colosseum is also depicted on the Italian version of the five-cent euro coin.