35 Amazing Photographs Capture the Exterior of the Coliseum in Rome, Italy From the 19th Century

The 19th century was a pivotal period in the history of the Colosseum, marking a significant shift from its centuries-long use as a quarry and a source of building materials to a revered historical monument and a subject of systematic preservation.

After centuries of decay, earthquakes, and plundering, the Colosseum was in a state of serious disrepair. The 19th century saw a concerted effort to stabilize and restore the structure. Following a major earthquake in 1806, which caused significant damage, architects like Raffaele Stern, Giuseppe Valadier, and Luigi Canina began extensive work to secure the crumbling walls. They added large brick abutments to support the outer ring, particularly on the more damaged southern side. These interventions were crucial in preventing the monument’s further collapse and are still visible today.

The 19th century was also a time of heightened archaeological interest. Systematic excavations were conducted to uncover the Colosseum's long-buried subterranean features, known as the hypogeum. This underground network of tunnels, cages, and elevators, which was used to house animals and gladiators and to stage spectacles, had been filled with dirt and debris over centuries. The excavations, led by figures like Carlo Fea and Pietro Rossi, removed later medieval additions and revealed the true complexity of the ancient structure.

For centuries, the Colosseum had been used for various purposes, including as a fortress, a cemetery, a source of building materials for churches and palaces, and even a place with small shops and homes. However, in the 18th century, a papal decree had consecrated the arena as a holy site to honor Christian martyrs, which helped protect it from further quarrying. By the 19th century, this protection, combined with the new preservation efforts, solidified its status as a historical and cultural monument.

The 19th century was the era of the “Grand Tour,” and the Colosseum became an essential stop for travelers and intellectuals visiting Rome. It was seen as a symbol of the city’s ancient glory and a testament to the might of the Roman Empire. Writers and artists, including Charles Dickens, visited the monument, often romanticizing its moonlit ruins. This new role as a tourist attraction brought renewed attention and appreciation to the Colosseum's historical significance.