The missing half of the Colosseum was largely destroyed by earthquakes and stone-robbers.
Over the centuries, the Colosseum in Rome has faced numerous challenges that have led to the loss of its original structure. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum was subjected to neglect and suffered from natural disasters, particularly earthquakes. The most significant earthquakes that contributed to the damage occurred in 847 AD and 1349 AD, causing the southern side of the amphitheater to collapse.
In addition to natural disasters, human activity played a significant role in the disappearance of the Colosseum’s material. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the Colosseum was used as a source of building materials. Many stones, metals, and other materials were removed from the Colosseum to be reused in the construction of other buildings. Notably, the marble façade was stripped and burned to make quicklime, and the iron clamps that held the stones together were removed, causing further instability and collapse.
The practice of using the Colosseum as a quarry continued until the 18th century when measures were taken to preserve what remained of the historic structure. Today, the Colosseum is a protected landmark, and its partial ruin serves as a powerful reminder of both its past grandeur and the extensive history of recycling materials in Rome. Conservation efforts are ongoing to maintain the integrity of the remaining structure and to ensure that this iconic symbol of ancient Rome endures for future generations to study and admire.
