Italy's government has given green light for refurbishment of Rome's famous ancient Colosseum. The Colosseum is one of world's most iconic sites and one of New Seven Wonders of the World. It is oval amphitheatre in the centre of city of Rome and is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built. It was completed over two millennia ago in AD 80. The plans will see monument fitted with new floor that will allow visitors chance to stand where Roman gladiators once fought for their lives. Gladiators were used to entertain audiences during the Roman Empire by fighting to death with swords against other gladiators, wild animals, and condemned criminals.
Italy's Culture Minister Dario Franceschini announced high-tech project and said it would open to public by 2023. It is projected to cost around 18.5 million euro, or $22.2 million. The Colosseum currently has no floor. Archaeologists removed original floor in the 19th Century to expose the structure's network of underground tunnels. Mr Franceschini said new floor would be "extraordinary" and would allow visitors to see "the majesty of Colosseum" from its centre. He added: "It's another step forward toward rebuilding arena. It is ambitious project that will aid conservation of archaeological structures while getting back to original image of the Colosseum."
