The Roman Empire is vividly brought to life through the lens of the Colosseum.
In 80 AD, Emperor Titus opens the Colosseum with 100 days of spectacular games, including one of the most famous gladiatorial matches in Rome's history.
When master builder Haterius constructs the Colosseum from the ashes of Nero's Golden House, his work is far from over. The Emperor tasks him with adding in a complex network of underground tunnels.
As the Roman Empire continues to expand, so does the diversity of exotic beasts brought back to entertain the Colosseum crowds.
When the mighty Emperor Trajan throws his great games of 107 AD, the crowd is treated to a rare spectacle: female gladiators.
The public execution of criminals is a staple in the Colosseum, but during Trajan's 123 days of games in 107 AD, one of these victims is no ordinary prisoner.
Galen of Pergamon, one of the most famous doctor/scientists of the ancient world, makes a name for himself as a physician for gladiators in the arena.
All of Rome's emperors have put great value on spectacles and games, but only one steps out of the Imperial Box and onto the sands of the arena: Commodus.
As Rome declines, the Colosseum, which once stood as a proud symbol of the Empire's glory, lies empty. To restore Rome, one man, a worshipper of the Rome's old Gods, turns to the arena.