The original name and modern nickname for the giant Flavian Amphitheater in Rome, whose construction began during the reign of the emperor Vespasian (69-79 AD), between 70-72. The name apparently derived from an adjacent colossal statue. It was officially dedicated in 80 AD by Titus in a ceremony that included 100 days of games. In 82 AD, Domitian added the uppermost story. Unlike earlier amphitheaters, which were nearly all dug into hillsides for extra support, the Colosseum is a freestanding structure of stone and concrete, measuring 620 by 513 feet and seating 50,000 spectators. It was the scene of thousands of hand-to-hand combats between gladiators, of contests between men and animals, and of many larger combats, including mock naval engagements. It has been damaged by lightning and earthquakes, but especially by vandalism; all the marble seats and decorative materials have disappeared.