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Rome, It - July 18, 1985 - The arena of the Colosseum measures 83 meters by 48 meters. A wooden floor covered by sand, covered an elaborate underground structure called the hypogeum.

Little now remains of the original arena floor, but the hypogeum is still clearly visible. It consisted of a two-level subterranean network of tunnels and cages beneath the arena where gladiators and animals were held before contests began.

Eighty vertical shafts provided instant access to the arena for caged animals and scenery pieces concealed underneath. Platforms, called hegmata, provided access for larger animals.

There are remnants that suggest that there was a system connected to a nearby aqueduct so area could be quickly flooded.

Texas Stadium's hole-in-the-roof design to let the elements act on the participants while the spectators sit in shaded comfort was superseded by the Colosseum. A series of sun shades were rolled down a system of cables that left an opening for the elements access the gladiators, while the crowds cheered from the shade.

All the exposed Roman brick was covered with Alabaster marble making the Colosseum shine like a great white pearl in the sun.

Let the games begin.