Ancient Imperial Passage Reopens to Public
For the first time in nearly two millennia, visitors to Rome's iconic Colosseum can now walk through the same secret tunnel that Roman emperors used to reach their private boxes. The 55-meter-long 'Cryptoporticus of Commodus' opened to the public on October 27, 2025, marking a historic moment in archaeological preservation and public access to ancient Roman heritage.
'You can now experience what it was like for an emperor to enter the arena,' says architect Barbara Nazzaro, who supervised the restoration project. 'This passage offers a unique glimpse into the private world of Roman rulers.'
Imperial Security and Spectacle
The underground corridor was constructed just a few years after the Colosseum's completion in 80 AD, serving as a secure passage for emperors traveling from their palace to the imperial box. The tunnel's elaborate decorations - including plasterwork depicting boar hunts, bear fights, and acrobats - provided rulers with a preview of the spectacles awaiting them in the arena above.
According to historical records, Emperor Commodus, who ruled from 180 to 192 AD, survived an assassination attempt in this very passage. Roman historian Cassius Dio recorded that 'in a narrow passageway, a disgruntled soldier struck at the emperor with his sword.' Commodus, famously portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix in the film Gladiator, was known for his enthusiasm for gladiatorial games and often entered the arena dressed as the hero Hercules.
Centuries of Restoration
Archaeologists first discovered the tunnel in the early 19th century, but it remained inaccessible to the public until now. The recent restoration project involved installing footpaths, lighting systems, securing loose marble elements, and protecting fragile wall paintings behind glass panels.
'This represents a significant milestone in blending archaeological research with public accessibility,' explains restoration specialist Marco Rossi. 'We've used advanced techniques including laser reattachment of fragile plaster and lighting that recreates the original daylight from sealed skylights.'
The tunnel's S-shaped design and marble-lined walls feature intricate carvings of mythological scenes, including depictions of Dionysus, the god of wine and revelry. Recent cleaning has revealed these artworks after centuries of accumulated grime.
Modern Visitor Experience
Today's visitors can follow the same route that emperors took to watch gladiator battles and animal hunts. The passage provides direct access to the imperial box, allowing modern tourists to stand where Roman rulers once watched spectacles that could involve up to 80,000 spectators.
The Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was completed under Emperor Titus in 80 AD and could hold between 50,000 and 80,000 people. It hosted gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, executions, and even mock sea battles during its operational history.
'Walking through this tunnel connects you directly with ancient history in a way that's rarely possible,' says cultural heritage director Sofia Bianchi. 'Visitors can literally follow in the footsteps of emperors and experience the Colosseum from their privileged perspective.'
The opening of the Commodus Passage represents the latest achievement in ongoing restoration efforts at the Colosseum, which have included structural stabilization and conservation of the amphitheater's underground chambers where gladiators and animals were kept before events.
For more information about the Colosseum's history and architecture, visit Wikipedia's Colosseum page.