What is the original official name of the Roman Colosseum?
- The Roman Circus
- The Forum Amphitheatre
- The Vespasian Arena
- The Flavian Amphitheatre
Answer: The Flavian Amphitheatre
The Colosseum was built by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty starting around 72 AD and was completed and inaugurated by his son Emperor Titus in 80 AD. Its original name was the Flavian Amphitheatre (Amphitheatrum Flavium). The nickname "Colosseum" came later, possibly from a colossal statue of Emperor Nero that once stood nearby. It is the largest amphitheatre ever built and could hold 50,000 to 80,000 spectators.