Colosseum Night Tours Sell Out

The Colosseum in Rome has extended its opening hours to include night tours, allowing tourists to visit the monument in cooler temperatures. The night tours, which run until 11pm, are sold out, offering a unique and romantic experience for visitors.

The Colosseum was already offering tours two nights a week but doubled that number to four this summer, with tours now taking place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The guided tours are limited to 275 people per night, a significant reduction from the 20,000 visitors the monument can get per day at peak times.

The extended opening hours were made possible by a grant from the Italian culture ministry. According to Simone Quilici, director of the Colosseum complex, the idea of doubling the night tours was mainly to give access to visitors that prefer cooler hours, as some tourists were staying away due to the intensifying heatwaves in the Italian capital.

The Colosseum, built in the first century, is the largest amphitheatre in the world and could hold around 50,000 spectators. It was used to host events like animal hunts and gladiatorial games. Visitors to the night tours can explore the arena floor and underground passages, away from the worst of the heat.

## Why it matters The extension of the Colosseum's opening hours is a significant move, as it allows tourists to experience the monument in a more comfortable and unique way. The cooler temperatures and limited number of visitors make for a more enjoyable and romantic experience, as noted by visitors who have taken the night tours. The initiative could be extended into September, depending on its success.

The night tours have been well-received by visitors, with many describing the experience as 'magical' and 'romantic'. As temperatures continue to soar across Rome, the Colosseum's extended opening hours provide a welcome respite for tourists looking to explore the city's ancient wonders without the heat.