Walk under a great archway known as the “Porta Libitina” or the Gate of Death and out onto the reconstructed Arena Floor, where the savage games once took place. The Gate of Death earned its name because only the dead passed through this exit after losing their lives in battle. Standing on the Arena Floor under the Roman Sky is an experience which nothing can beat even if you are a history buff or just a travel enthusiast, your guide’s stories will bring the roaring games back to life in the evocative setting. With no crowds to be seen on the floor, the Colosseum can never be so atmospheric. Home to gladiatorial games, exotic staged hunts, theatrical executions and even mock sea-battles, this Colosseum tour explores the Arena Floor with its awe-inspiring panorama, up-close views of the underground ‘backstage’ where the spectacles were brought to life, and a look at where the Emperor’s box once stood, all special access areas that standard ticket holders don’t get to see. Follow your guide up to the second level to see what the crowds saw, tracing the Colosseum’s circumference in an effort to understand what it must have been like when the stands were packed, the crowds were roaring and a gladiator’s destiny hung on their whims.