What ancient Roman amphitheater in Rome was completed in 80 AD?

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The ancient Roman amphitheater in Rome completed in AD 80 was the Colosseum. Also known in antiquity as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it was begun around AD 70–72 under Emperor Vespasian and completed by his son Titus in AD 80.

The Colosseum was built just east of the Roman Forum on the site of an artificial lake associated with Nero's palace complex. Its inauguration featured lavish games, including gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and public spectacles. Later, Emperor Domitian added the hypogeum, a network of underground passages and holding areas beneath the arena floor.

A common mix-up is confusing it with the Circus Maximus. The Circus Maximus was a much longer venue primarily used for chariot racing, while the Colosseum was an amphitheater designed for events viewed from all sides. The building suffered earthquake damage, stone removal, and centuries of alteration, but remains the largest ancient amphitheater still standing.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Aug. 2026

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