Which empire built the Colosseum in Rome during the first century CE?

The Roman Empire built the Colosseum in Rome during the first century CE. Construction began under Emperor Vespasian around AD 70–72 and the amphitheater was dedicated by his son Titus in AD 80.

The building was originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, after the Flavian dynasty. Its later name, Colosseum, is linked to a colossal statue of Emperor Nero that once stood nearby. The structure used concrete, brick, travertine, and carefully engineered arches to support enormous crowds.

The Colosseum hosted public spectacles including gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, executions, and staged performances. It could accommodate tens of thousands of spectators, with seating arranged according to social rank. A large awning system, or velarium, helped shade parts of the audience.

The amphitheater suffered damage from earthquakes, stone reuse, and neglect after the Roman period. It was never simply destroyed in one event. Today it is one of Rome’s defining landmarks and part of the Archaeological Area of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.