The short answer is: earthquakes and popes, in that order.

For much more on the life and death of the Colosseum - and many other fascinating facts about the classical world - check out my book “Naked Statues, Fat Gladiators, and War Elephants: Frequently Asked Questions about the Ancient Greeks and Romans.”

https://www.amazon.com/Naked-Statues-...

If you're interested in booking a tour of the Colosseum, I recommend Through Eternity Tours, a Rome-based company that specializes in custom, in-depth experiences. Save 5% on any private or group tour with the discount code TOLDINSTONE.

https://www.througheternity.com/en/co...

If you're so inclined, you can follow me elsewhere online:

  / toldinstone  
  / toldinstone  
  / toldinstone  
  / 20993845.garrett_ryan  

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:30 Games of the Colosseum
1:43 Decline of the Games
3:15 The medieval Colosseum
5:37 The Colosseum during the Renaissance

Thanks for watching!