The guide, fully illustrated in colour, opens with the history of the imperial amphitheatres, continues with that of the Colosseum and a detailed description of all the parts of the building, as well as their functions within the complex spectacle of the gladiatorial games. Finally, a chapter is devoted to the long and varied history of the Flavian amphitheatre from the Middle Ages to the present. Written by Rossella Rea with extreme scholarly accuracy and a wealth of information, updated to the latest excavations, the guide is a valuable tool for all who want to derive a fully aware cultural experience from a visit to the Colosseum, the symbol of Rome and the nation as a whole, one of the world’s most visited monuments and still capable of communicate an extraordinary sense of excitement today.