Roman Colosseum of Italy by Catherine Colosimo

Description

Catherine Colosimo, a self-taught artist who was born in Montreal, Quebec, was influenced deeply by her father’s love of painting and craftsmanship and, at a young age discovered her love of art and her talent for painting. Catherine paints in oils, and her works can be found in many private collections in Canada and the United States. Her work is appreciated and recently sought-after by the novice collector and the most discriminating connoisseur.

The Roman Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an iconic symbol of ancient Rome and one of history’s most renowned architectural marvels. Located in the heart of Rome, Italy, it stands as a testament to the grandeur and ingenuity of the Roman Empire.

Built between 70-80 AD during the reigns of emperors Vespasian and Titus, the Colosseum was primarily used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other spectacles of entertainment. It could hold an estimated audience of 50,000 to 80,000 spectators, making it the largest amphitheatre ever constructed at the time.

The Colosseum’s elliptical shape, measuring about 189 meters long, 156 meters wide, and standing around 48 meters tall, is a testament to the architectural expertise of the Romans. It was designed to provide optimal visibility and efficient crowd management, with multiple entrances, tiered seating, and underground passages for easy access.

The outer facade of the Colosseum boasted three levels of arches adorned with decorative elements such as columns, statues, and friezes. The lower level featured Doric columns, the second level displayed Ionic columns, and the third level showcased Corinthian columns. These architectural details exemplify the Romans’ mastery of engineering and aesthetics.

Over the centuries, the Colosseum has undergone various modifications and faced damage from earthquakes and other factors. Nevertheless, it has remained an iconic landmark and a testament to the grandeur of ancient Rome. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Colosseum attracts millions of visitors each year who come to admire its historical significance and marvel at the architectural splendour it represents.