The construction of the Colosseum  (Colosseo) began under the emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and was finished in 80 AD under his son Titus. The site chosen was a flat area between the Caelian, Esquiline and Palatine Hills. In addition, a canalized stream ran through the site. The area was inhabited by the 2 century BC and was devastated by the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD. Consequently, emperor Nero used main part of the area as his personal domain. Domus Aurea and artificial lake surrounded by pavilions, gardens and porticoes were built there. Consequently, much of the Domus Aurea was removed, the lake was filled in and the site became the location for the Colosseum.

Its construction was funded by the opulent spoils brought from the Jewish Temple after the Great Jewish Revolt in 70 AD

After the war, around 100.000 Jewish prisoners were working on the massive construction. Moreover, the slaves undertook manual labor. For instance, they worked in the quarries as Tivoli where the travertine material was quarried and transported stone 20 miles from Tivoli to Rome. Along with them, teams of professional Roman engineers, painters, builders and decorators worked on the construction. The Flavian Amphitheater constructed with wood, limestone, cement, mortar, and tuff materials.