The Colosseum belongs to a wider archaeological landscape that includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. The park’s official visitor system offers different routes and access combinations, so the experience begins with choosing the right ticket rather than simply arriving at the outer wall.

Walk your eyes around the repeated arches before going inside. The contrast between the intact exterior profile and the exposed inner structure helps explain how an amphitheatre organised enormous numbers of people. Inside, focus on the relationship between seating, arena and the spaces below it. Different tickets may include different areas.