In addition to being an icon of Roman history, the Colosseum hosts special events, concerts, and unique performances that provide unparalleled experiences.
And did you know that the Colosseum is not just an archaeological site? Do you want to know what kind of exclusive events and historical re-enactments it hosts?
Think that it is even possible to attend some shows under the stars!
Read on and find out the updated schedule, the most exciting events, and how to participate in a unique experience at the world’s most famous amphitheater!
ALT! Don’t risk losing your seat: by booking your ticket online you can avoid the long lines at the ticket office and secure your entry at the time of your choice! Book your ticket now and ensure access without waiting!
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The Colosseum as a place of events: history and modernity
Naumachia, from a painting by Ulpianus Checa
For centuries, the Colosseum has been the scene of gladiator fights, shows with exotic animals and mythological performances.
Even today, while respecting its historical value, the amphitheater hosts unique cultural events and celebrations capable of delivering incredible thrills. In Roman times, the Colosseum could accommodate up to 50,000 spectators, who flocked to watch epic spectacles divided into various rings according to social level.
Special events at the Colosseum
The facade of the Colosseum at night | Photo by Aaron Logan | CC-BY-1.0
Night tours and immersive shows
One of the most impressive events are the night tours that offer a magical atmosphere thanks to the scenic illuminations.
If you attend these events, you can admire the Colosseum under the stars, living an unprecedented experience!
Some evenings include peculiar activities that can further enhance the worthiness of the visit. For example, the possibility of wandering around the Colosseum accompanied by an expert guide while also accessing the arena and the undergrounds.
The night tour also allows you to receive immersive narratives about the history of gladiators, so you can experience it from the point of view of the valiant fighters forced to fight in the arena.
Sometimes historical re-enactments with costumed actors are organized, and lately the latest technologies have also been used to project special scenes related to the Colosseum, to watch, for example, gladiators preparing for fights.
Let me give you an important piece of advice: places are limited for these events , so reservations are recommended, if not unavoidable!
If you want to learn more about this opportunity, read our article Visiting the Colosseum by Night: Special Tours, Events, Tickets.
Exclusive concerts at the Colosseum
Fireworks over the Colosseum | ID 36145835 | Colosseum © Ikouzel | Dreamstime.com
Although the Colosseum does not host regular concerts, on special occasions it has become the stage for unforgettable performances.
Some internationally renowned artists have performed here in exclusive invitation-only events or broadcast live on television.
Did you know, for example, that Paul McCartney has performed at the Colosseum?
In 2003, the singer gave a private concert inside the Flavian Amphitheater, raising funds for the protection of the artistic heritage.
But other important authors have also given unique moments inside the Colosseum: among Italians, for example, Andrea Bocelli performed in 2017.
Dancer Roberto Bolle danced there in 2008. However, these have only ever been special events with charitable purposes.
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Historical reenactments: gladiators and battles
Reenactment Roman soldiers | ID 53123125 | Colosseum © Shopartgallerycom | Dreamstime.com
The Colosseum is also used to organize historical reenactments through which the atmosphere of ancient Rome can be experienced .
For example, in the Colosseum Archaeological Park, the historical reenactment of the “Ides of March” on March 15, 2018 was very popular: it is in fact the anniversary of Julius Caesar’s death.
Are you a lover of history? Then keep up to date and follow the website to find out what events will be organized near the Colosseum.
Do you want to see gladiators today? Near the Colosseum you can find groups of costumed reenactors offering combat demonstrations and lending themselves to beautiful souvenir photos!
Exhibitions and cultural events
Göbekli Tepe archaeological site | ID 362410997 © Evren Kalinbacak | Dreamstime.com
The Colosseum Archaeological Park also hosts temporary exhibitions dedicated to art, history and archaeology.
There are indeed many initiatives, and being of a varied nature, the management ensures the interest of all its visitors.
Currently, for example, you can attend the exhibition Göbeklitepe, The Enigma of a Sacred Place, organized on the second level of the Flavian Amphitheater: the goal of the initiative is to raise awareness of the importance of preserving archaeological heritage.
Indeed, you will be able to take an immersive journey to a region of Turkey, host to one of the world’s oldest archaeological sites.
Think of it as the oldest settlement with a monumental structure ever discovered! Don’t miss your chance: the exhibition ends on April 21, 2025!
Another exhibition of great interest that can currently be visited is “From Sharjah to Rome. Along the Spice Route.” A fantastic historical excursus related to trade between the West and the East.
The spice route is the main subject of this exhibition set up inside the Curia Iulia, thanks to which you can admire wonderful archaeological finds from the Emirate of Sharjah.
It was, in fact, a central place in Hellenistic times, through which trade passed. Again, I advise you to hurry: the exhibition will end on April 23, 2025.
Finally, you will be able to take guided tours embellished with educational tours of the Domus Aurea on the third Thursday of every month: but beware, advance reservations are mandatory!
Stay updated on new organizations and possible extensions: follow the website and comment if you always want to have fresh news!
If, on the other hand, you don’t want to miss the exhibitions currently set up at the Flavian Amphitheater, buy your ticket to the Colosseum and come discover them for yourself.
Frequently asked questions
It is possible to enter the Colosseum free of charge on the first Sundays of each month in addition to some set days: April 25, June 2, and November 4. In addition, certain categories of people can enter for free or with discounts, such as recognized guides, scholars or people with disabilities.
The best time to visit the Colosseum is early in the morning: temperatures are not too hot and, more importantly, crowding inside the site does not usually reach excessive levels. Alternatively, it is also advisable to arrange a visit in the last hours of the afternoon, another less popular time slot. However, be careful: you can enter at most up to an hour before the Colosseum closes.
To skip the line at the Colosseum there is only one way: you must book your ticket online. This will allow you to avoid the line at the amphitheater ticket office.
The Colosseum is illuminated on some specific occasions with different color light depending on the event. For example, on May 9, 2024, it was lit in blue for Europe Day. But it also happened to see it illuminated in other colors: for example, purple, raising awareness about the problems of epilepsy (an initiative proposed by the Italian League Against Epilepsy). It has also been illuminated with the Italian tricolor.
Conclusion
Floor mosaic depicting some types of amphitheater performances
So here we have come to the concluding part of our article. We have seen together that the Colosseum is not only a historical monument, but also a place of special events, exclusive concerts and unique performances.
Every experience you have at the Colosseum can give you unique emotions: don’t miss the chance to visit exhibitions, concerts, events, or take pictures at the illuminated Colosseum or with gladiators roaming around outside the amphitheater!
Have you ever witnessed a special event at the Colosseum? Tell us about it in the comments!
And if you have not yet witnessed it and would like more information, feel free to contact us by leaving a comment!
What are you waiting for? Book a special visit now and experience the Colosseum like you’ve never seen it before!
The best-selling
Colosseum and Roman Forum Ticket + Audioguide
Fast-track access and audio guide included: explore Colosseum and Roman Forum with one ticket.
from 25€
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Cover: ID 165130603 | Colosseum © Daniel Chetroni | Dreamstime.com
