It has been estimated, between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators, with an average audience of around 65,000; it was used for gladiatorial contests and public performances such as sea battles (animal hunts, executions, reenactments of famous battles and dramas based on classical mythology, was later reused for purposes such as houses, laboratories, accommodation for religious orders, fortress, quarry and Christian sanctuary.
Although partially ruined due to the damage caused by earthquakes and stone thieves, the Colosseum is still an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome. It is one of the most popular in Rome.
The Colosseum is also depicted in the Italian version of the five cents euro coin.