why is the colosseum called the colosseum

Over time, as bloodsport went out of fashion, the Colosseum was no longer host to the gladiators and emperors of the past.

There were public executions, wild animal hunts and gladiatorial battles that brought to life the roaring crowds in attendance. The inauguration of the Colosseum was celebrated with 100 days of games that were free to the public and funded by the emperor. Originally named the Flavian Amphitheater, after this Dynasty, the nickname of Colosseo would come later. This Dynasty consisted of the Emperor Vespasian and his two sons, Titus and Domitian, who ruled after him respectively. The Colosseum was conceived of and constructed during the reign of the Flavian Dynasty. A mere eight years to build such a sophisticated structure is truly remarkable however, it needs to be taken with a grain of salt, considering the tens of thousands of slaves who perished while building the Colosseum. Construction started on the Colosseum in 72 AD and it was completed in 80 AD. The other two thirds? We’ll get into that later. Well, at least one third of it has been standing. The Colosseum has been standing in Rome for nearly two millennia.

Why is the colosseum called the colosseum