Ethan Bailey

Mrs. Tiedeman
AP Art History
26 October 2016
The Evolution of Stadiums
Over time, modern day stadiums have strayed from original designs of ancient ones with
the aim of improvement, yet commonly contain many similarities from the past stadiums. One of
these ancient stadiums was the colosseum, and, although this stadium and modern day stadiums
are constructed thousands of years apart, they still maintain many similarities. One of these, the
hierarchy of social classes, can still be seen today. Originally, the highest class would sit nearest
to the arena and lower classes would fall accordingly behind it, giving better seats to wealthier
people. The same concept is in stadiums today, however not mandated like in ancient times.
Wealthier people have the ability to buy better seats, but are not required. The form of the
stadiums throughout the ages have many differences and similarities as well. The colosseum was
a Roman style building and was structured on high walls and pillars made from hard cement. A
modern day stadium, however, consists of glass, metal, and some concrete, mainly for flooring.
They both share comparable gate entrances for both players and viewers. One very
distinguishable difference between ancient and modern stadiums was the purpose. The
colosseum was used for entertainment, but was constructed to show off the wealth and power of
Rome. They also used it for keeping Plebeians busy, showcasing exotic animals, and introducing
and exhibiting new engineering advances in technology. Modern day stadiums could demonstrate
these practices, however they are mainly used for sports and musical entertainment. Patronage of
the stadiums are somewhat divergent. Construction of the colosseum was under the head of

Vespasian and Titus, both emperors of Rome. While modern day stadiums aren't under the
control of the president or other country leaders, they are under supervision of construction
corporations and major investors, typically private. Overall, there are many similarities between
ancient and modern stadiums, however many concepts are beginning to move away from old
ideas due to improvements in technology and intent and changes in form and context.