The Colosseum

The first position on the list of the best Roman amphitheatres to visit in the world is the Colosseum. When the Roman Empire was at its height, the Colosseum, or "Colosseo" in Italian, was its biggest amphitheater. Emperor Vespasian constructed it in the first century AD as a recreational area for the inhabitants of Rome. Vespasian, who saved the Roman Empire from extinction, would not survive to see the Flavian Amphitheatre's completion, despite it being originally called after his family name.

A trip to the Colosseum provides a fascinating insight into the life of Roman residents and those unfortunate enough to fight there. For many, the Colosseum is a symbol of the might, showmanship, and brutality of ancient Rome. Particularly, one can now take a tour of the underground passageways and rooms where the gladiators of ancient Rome would practice their fights and reflect on their mortality. The top parts of the building, from which you can see the Roman Forum, have also just been opened.

The Colosseum has a museum with a lot of intriguing artifacts and information, and there are audio guides in a number of different languages. Around 7 million people visit the Colosseum each year, so it's wise to purchase your tickets online and go earlier or later in the day to avoid the busiest times. Only by guided tour, which must be scheduled in advance, are the Terrazzo Belvedere's top three levels and the hypogeum accessible. The main building is also open for guided visits. Unsurprisingly, security is strong.

Location: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy