Colosseum: Rise and Fall

Recent archaeological discoveries and the latest scientific research are shedding fresh light on the history of Rome’s iconic Colosseum. These findings illuminate the complex ties between the amphitheatre and the Roman Empire that built and used it, deepening our understanding of their intertwined legacy.

“Origins” is a television episode that turns its attention to one of antiquity’s most recognisable monuments – the Colosseum in Rome. The programme forms part of the wider series and concentrates on uncovering the background of this iconic arena, setting the stage for a close examination of its place within Roman history. The episode draws on the latest archaeological discoveries and the most recent scholarly research to illuminate the story of the Colosseum. By presenting these new findings, it outlines how modern science and excavation have added fresh layers of understanding to what was previously known about the arena’s construction and use. Central to the narrative is the complex bond between the amphitheatre and the empire that erected it. The programme shows how the building was not merely a venue for spectacle but also a physical expression of imperial power, reflecting the political and social ambitions of Rome at the height of its influence. Through this focus on cutting‑edge inquiry, the episode highlights how each new piece of evidence reshapes the picture of the Colosseum’s role within the broader Roman world. It underscores the notion that the monument’s history is inseparable from the empire’s own development, offering viewers a nuanced view of their intertwined legacy.