Colosseum
- The Colosseum in located in the center of Rome, Italy. The Colosseum, originally the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commissioned between 70-72 AD by Emperor Vespasian, but completed in 80 AD under Vespasian’s son, Titus. Titus opened the Colosseum with 100 days of games such as gladiatorial combats and animal fights. Roman emperors continued using this as a way of entertainment. The Colosseum was used approximately once a year and all other businesses would be closed for that day so all Roman citizens could attend. There were 80 arches entrances, to easily allow all 55,000 spectators in. Spectators’ seats would be determined by their stature in society. The gladiators used in the fights were usually prisoners of war and if they won, they got to be released. Under the Colosseum is a move and multiple traps for the animals and gladiators.
St Peter’s Basilica
- St. Peter’s Basilica is technically not in Italy, but rather in Vatican City, which is its own country. This is the world’s largest church and is considered a basilica because it is built upon what is believed to be St. Peter’s tomb. The church took an extensive time to be built because many different artists were competing for control. In fact, the basilica wasn’t supposed to be as big as it now is but bese so many architects and artists were working on in it, it kept growing. Millions of people visit the church every year to pay homage to the dozens of popes and saints laid to rest there. In fact, three popes are on display for the public to view.
Pantheon
- The Pantheon, located in Rome, is one of the most well preserved building in Italy. The architecturally advanced building was built as a shrine to the Roman Gods. The giant dome, at one point, was the largest dome in the world but now remains the largest unsupported dome with the most interesting feature, a large hole in the ceiling.
Doge’s Palace
- Doge’s Palace is located in Venice and was built to be the center of the government during the Venetian Republic. Now, however, Doge’s palace only houses the Doge, or the chief of the law. The Palace is a sort of museum but is unique in the fact that all of the artwork was made specifically to be house in Doge’s Palace, whereas most art is made and then moved to a museum.
Roman Forum
- The Roman Forum, now just ruins, used to be the center of politics and commerce. Like many Roman structures, the Roman Forum fell as the Roman Empire fell and left the world with little to admire. The Roman Forum is interesting because buildings and structures weren’t completely torn down before being built upon so there are many layers of buildings from different time periods.
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