The Roman Colosseum is nearly 2000 years old and is one of Italy's most famous buildings; it's probably the most famous ruin in the world.

It attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Colosseum is spectacular to look at and has a fascinating (yet violent) history. No trip to Italy would be complete without witnessing this enigmatic structure.

This was once the proud home of the chariot races. Gladiators use to fight to the death here, against each other and any wild animals the organizers saw fit - all in the name of "entertainment". Nowadays the centre stage is a lot tamer. Paul McCartney performed one of the first concerts ever held at the venue in March of 2003.

The Colosseum is probably the finest surviving example of ancient Roman architecture alive today. Its massive structure is shaped like a modern day football stadium and can seat up to 45,000 spectators. It has four stories and is over 160 feet high. It's 600 feet long and 500 feet wide.

Cages for gladiators and animals are installed beneath the oval shaped area. There's a wall that separates the arena from the spectators, who'd sit on sloping concrete supports like in many sports stadiums today.

Construction of the Roman Colloseum started between A.D. 69 to 79. It was completed in A.D. 80.