The Colosseum, originally named the Flavian Amphitheatre, stands smack in the heart of Rome, Italy. The construction of the Colosseum began around 70-72 AD under the rule of Emperor Vespasian, while it was completed by his son Titus in 80 AD. The construction of the Colosseum began on the site of Nero’s artificial lake, which was part of the Golden House, and it grew to become a massive venue for gladiator battles, hunting, and other performances, accommodating 80,000 people.