THE COLOSSEUM, AN ANCIENT COVERAGE SYMBOL OF HUMAN BRILLIANCE
Imagine a gigantic shadow, an immense fabric unfolding over the Colosseum’s arena, shielding thousands of spectators from the scorching sun. This was the Velarium, a marvel of Roman engineering, a covering that transformed the amphitheater into a cool and shaded place.
Thousands of sailors, experts in the art of sails, maneuvered a complex system of ropes and pulleys, hoisting and lowering the fabric with millimeter precision. The Velarium was not just a protection, but a symbol of power and ingenuity, a work that demonstrated the Romans’ ability to dominate nature and create unforgettable spectacles. Its grandeur and functionality testify to the technical skill and organization of a people who left an indelible mark on history.
But the Velarium was not just protection from the sun. At times, it was sprinkled with exotic perfumes, to freshen the air and mask the strong odors of animals and blood. And on special occasions, it was dyed in vibrant colors, transforming the arena into a kaleidoscope of hues.
One curious anecdote concerns the emperor Commodus, known for his eccentricity. It is said that he loved to attend the fights under the Velarium, adorned with jewels and dressed as a gladiator. At times, he would order the Velarium to be lowered suddenly, to surprise the spectators with a wave of heat.