Introduction to the Secret Tunnel
A secret tunnel in the Colosseum, used by Roman emperors to visit gladiators and escape angry mobs, has been opened to the public for the first time. The hidden underground passage, called Passaggio di Commodo or "Tunnel of Commodus" in Italian, has been renovated and is now part of the Colosseum Archaeological Park in Rome, Italy.
History of the Tunnel
The secret passage is believed to have been built between the reigns of Domitian (81-96) and Trajan (98-117 AD). However, it was named after the Roman emperor Commodus (180-192 AD), who was a passionate fan of gladiator fights. Archaeologists say that plans to include the secret tunnel were added during the amphitheater’s construction, and it was created through excavations of the foundations between the first and second centuries AD.
Features and Uses of the Tunnel
The underground passage was used not only for the emperors to visit gladiators but also to flood the arena for naval battles. According to archaeologists, water still flows beneath the site. The tunnel, which was excavated in the 19th century, comes to a standstill after 55 meters. The rest of the passage was destroyed when sewer pipes were laid under the city of Rome, leaving the destination of the passage once it leaves the Colosseum unknown.
Possible Destinations of the Tunnel
The tunnel runs towards the east, with some experts suggesting that it leads to the gladiators’ barracks, the Ludus Magnus or Caelian Hill. The Roman historian Cassius Dio’s account associates the tunnel with Emperor Commodus, who was attacked in an assassination attempt by a conspirator, possibly in the tunnel.
Restoration and Opening to the Public
The restoration work revealed remarkable details, including remains of luxurious marble paneling and stucco decorations depicting mythological scenes of Dionysus and Ariadne. A new lighting system was installed to recreate the natural light that once came through the passage’s small skylights. The Passage of Commodus will be open to small groups of visitors from October 27th as part of the “Full Experience” ticket. A second restoration project, involving the section of the tunnel that extends beyond the Colosseum’s perimeter, is scheduled to begin early next year.
Significance of the Tunnel’s Discovery
The discovery and restoration of the secret tunnel provide a unique glimpse into the history of the Colosseum and the Roman Empire. According to Alfonsina Russo, the site’s director, “It is an extraordinary place and now that it has been restored, the world will finally get to see it.” The tunnel’s association with Emperor Commodus, who was played by Joaquin Phoenix in Ridley Scott’s 2000 film Gladiator, adds to its significance and allure.
