Evaluation of Historical archival material of Colosseum Essay

Evaluation of Historical archival material of Colosseum - Essay Example This "Evaluation of Historical archival material of Colosseum" essay describes the history of one of the greatest architectural achievements of the Roman Empire the Colosseum. The amphitheatre became the most popular and significant amphitheatre of its time and people used to flock from distant countries to watch the spectacles being displayed there. In order to comprehend why the building was able to attract so much attention and why similar buildings were not constructed before, one needs to highlight that the craze for such form of entertainment, such as gladiatorial fights, emerged only during the time span when the Roman Empire was at its peak. In the initial period after the construction, the spectacles were held primarily in circuses. Circuses were in essence U-shaped racecourse tracks, with the entrance being at one end of the track. Hordes of spectators used to fill the stands to view the spectacle, often putting their lives at risk since there was no protection. The stands used to be so crowded that those on the back could not even see the battle going on. According to Roth, architects could manipulate the space whichever way they like. The circus, although designed as a racecourse, was in fact intended for chariot and horse races and athletic events. It was the growing importance and interest in these spectacles and events which gave rise to the need for a public building. It is to be noted that the oldest permanent amphitheater which was built from stone was the one in Pompeii, constructed in 80 BC. The Colosseum was located in a strategically important location given the lack of transportation in the city. A significant important event which made the need for a public building more acute was the disastrous fire of 64 AD, occurring during the reign of Nero (Italy Holidays 2011). In fact, after it, the growth in city architecture occurred at a fast yet unorganized pace. Wood continued to be the characteristic material of buildings in the reconstruction of the city; thus not depriving the city of its previous appearance. From July 18 to 25, it took more than seven days for the fire to die out. The fire ate away most of the part of the city which was characterized as its older part. After the fire had settled down, Rome was left with gaping spaces caused by burnt out buildings, particularly in its heart. This was the opportunity city planners were waiting for to make buildings with the principles of modern architecture. Opinions differ but Nero was held