The Infamous Colosseum

Remember the gladiator films where they meet in mortal combats and condemned prisoners fight with hungry lions and other monstrous animals? Well.... This is the very setting.

Gladiator fights originated in Rome. It started as a ritual in honor for the death of a Ceasar. Until, the ceremonies got so popular that it became a game for them, specially for the Emperors who wanted to display their power. On a fight, he had the power to save or slay the life of the loosing player.

Romans loved to witness these bloody form of entertainment in the Colosseum which can accomodate over 45,000-50,000 spectators. This is where they watched gladiators fight with each other, also fights between animals, and even fights between man and animals.

When a Christian refuses to bow to the empereror nor worship their gods, he would be charged guilty of treason and be thrown into combat with animals. When one member of a family was accused, the whole family would be thrown - including little children.

In contrast to other Roman ampitheaters which were located in the city's outskirts, this was located in the city center. Thus, placing it literally and symbolically in the heart of Rome.

It used to be a perfect arena, but over time it deteriorated sue to earth quakes, revolts, and other factors. Now, only tw0-thirds of it is left. But still it gives

With dusk hugging the surroundings and the full moon lighting over it, it gives me an eerie feeling - taking me back in time where over 5,000 wild animals and 11,000 Jews, Christians, slaves, and gladiators lost their lives. This place used to be filled with blood, sweat, and jeers.

Today, it is not being used as a stadium for these brutal games anymore. Whew! That's a good news. Now it stands more of a tourist attraction ... and a home for a large community modern Roman stray cats.