Ancient Colosseum photo copyrighted by: Galen R. Frysinger The Colosseum is a huge ellipse with tiered seating, with an elliptical arena within. It combined a mix of materials including (a surprise for modern visitors here perhaps) concrete for the foundations. The Romans invented the super-strong
material, and it allowed them to build larger, more stable buildings. Travertine
stone (mined from the hills of Latium around Rome) was used for the piers and
arcades. Tufa (softer volcanic rock) was used as infill between the piers on the walls of the lower two levels. Concrete faced with brick was used for the upper
levels and for the ceiling vaults. The characteristic rounded arches that the
builders used also provided great strength and support, spreading the weight
of the upper tiers.
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