Restoration reveals how people were seated at Roman Colosseum

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Restoration Reveals Amazing Find At Roman Colosseum
Restoration Reveals Amazing Find At Roman Colosseum


A new discovery at the Colosseum in Rome proves ancient Romans had a modern approach to stadium seating.

According to Discovery News, ongoing restoration in the 2,000-year-old monument has revealed traces of red painted numbers found on the Colosseum's arches, similar to those found at the entrances of stadiums today which guide spectators to their seats. Roman numerals like X, V, I and L were first carved into the Travertine stones and then painted using a red, clay-based paint.



The monument's director told Discovery, "The 50,000 spectators had a ticket that said which numbered gate arch they were supposed to enter. Inside the arena, there were other numbers to help people access their seats, which were assigned according to social class."

In total there were 80 entrances, 76 of which were set aside for the general public.

The Colosseum opened in the year 80 A.D. and was the largest building in Rome at that time. The stadium held gladiator games where warriors would battle until their death, but those games were eventually banned in the fifth century.

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