Italy wants to restore the arena in the Roman Colosseum

Rome - The Roman Colosseum may soon regain the appearance it had during the times when gladiatorial games, battles with wild animals, and executions took place in the ancient amphitheater. Italian Minister of Culture Dario Franceschini has supported a plan to create a circular arena in the Colosseum that would cover the exposed remains of the basement areas. According to archaeologists, various cultural events could then be held in the Colosseum.
    The amphitheater, which accommodated over 35,000 spectators, was completed during the reign of Emperor Titus in 80 AD. It was used for one and a half millennia as a venue for contemporary entertainments - from ancient gladiatorial contests to theatrical performances. In the Middle Ages, the building ceased to serve its original purpose and was converted into apartments and shops.
    At the end of the 19th century, remnants of corridors and other spaces that once lay beneath the arena itself were uncovered during archaeological research: this is how the Colosseum is known to people today. However, archaeologists have agreed to cover the basement once again with boards and fill it with sand, so that a circular arena could be formed again.
    "I really like that idea. Now, all that’s needed is a bit of courage," praised the project on Twitter the Minister of Culture.