TED-Ed: The Romans flooded the Colosseum for sea battles - Janelle Peters

The Colosseum, built in 80 CE, was a grand symbol of Roman power, hosting events like gladiator duels, chariot races, and naumachiae. These spectacles, financed by the Emperor, showcased Rome's might. Ingenious engineering allowed the arena to be flooded for naval battles. Over time, the Colosseum's aquatic events were moved to a nearby lake, and the arena was repurposed for other uses.

What was the primary purpose of the Colosseum when it was completed in 80 CE?

• To serve as a marketplace

• To display Rome's power through grand spectacles

• To act as a fortress

• To function as a religious temple

Which of the following events was NOT part of the Colosseum's grand opening celebrations?

• Parades

• Musical performances

• Religious ceremonies

• Public executions

What remains a mystery about the Colosseum's naval battles?

• The number of spectators

• The type of boats used

• The duration of each battle

• The method of flooding the arena

How were the boats used in the Colosseum's naval battles designed?

• To be unsinkable

• To resemble famous historical ships

• With sails for wind propulsion

• With pointed bottoms for speed

What change occurred in the Colosseum's use after the naval battles were moved to a nearby lake?

• It gained underground animal cages and trap doors

• It was converted into a residential area

• It was abandoned

• It became a permanent water arena