Getting good seats at the Colosseum

Summary by Krater

This video offers hypothetical practical advice for a time traveler visiting the Colosseum in ancient Rome, explaining the seating arrangements, how seating tiers corresponded to social class, when to visit to see games, and how admission tickets (tesserae) functioned.

From the video

Answers: How can a time traveler get a good seat at the Colosseum in ancient Rome?

• Colosseum seating arrangement
• Social class divisions in ancient Rome
• Roman amphitheater admission tickets (tesserae)
• Gladiatorial games schedule in ancient Rome

What it concludes

• Colosseum seating was strictly regimented by social class, with the best seats closest to the arena reserved for the emperor, Vestal Virgins, and senators, while slaves, women, and low-status spectators stood on wooden planks at the top.
• Gladiators fought in the Colosseum about a dozen times in an average year, so time travelers should plan visits to coincide with Saturnalia or imperial dedication games.
• Colosseum tickets (tesserae) were not sold but were given in blocks to important individuals and guilds, meaning time travelers must secure one through well-connected Roman friends or patrons.