A previously hidden segment of history is now accessible to the public within Rome's ancient amphitheater, the Colosseum. This newly unveiled section is known as the “Passage of Commodus,” a concealed corridor measuring approximately 55 meters (180 feet) in length. Constructed sometime between the I and II centuries AD, this unique architectural feature was designed to provide discreet entry for emperors and high-ranking officials. It allowed them to bypass the massive crowds, ensuring a private and privileged route to their reserved seating areas.
The corridor derives its name from Emperor Commodus, who reigned from 180 to 192 AD. Beyond its function as a private entryway, history suggests this path is connected to a dramatic event: an attempted assassination on Commodus himself, lending the location a palpable sense of personal intrigue and danger. Archaeologists emphasize the “exceptional significance” of opening this section, noting how it deepens the understanding of imperial logistics and the symbolic power structures prevalent in Ancient Rome.
The public debut of this route follows a meticulous and extensive restoration effort carried out by specialists from the Colosseum Archaeological Park. This crucial work spanned nearly a year, beginning in October 2024 and concluding in September 2025. The project involved substantial structural reinforcement, the careful restoration of decorative surfaces, and the installation of a new visitor walkway.
Architect Barbara Nazzaro, who oversaw the restoration, highlighted that visitors can now truly appreciate the experience of entering the arena as a ruler would have done. The opening allows modern guests to step into the shoes of the ancient elite and gain a unique perspective on the spectacle that unfolded within the Colosseum.
Near the entrance to the passage, archaeologists uncovered traces of original wall paintings depicting scenes characteristic of the arena, such as boar hunts, animal combats, and acrobatic performances. While the corridor walls were initially clad in marble, they were later covered with plaster adorned with frescoes illustrating mythological themes. Due to high humidity levels, the surviving fragments of this decoration have suffered damage. However, modern technology will allow guests to view the original splendor through specialized digital reconstructions, bringing the ancient artwork back to life.
Starting October 27, 2025, the “Passage of Commodus” will be officially integrated into the site's ticketing option known as the “Full Experience.” This path is distinctly S-shaped and extends beyond the main arena structure. Intriguingly, the exact terminus of the corridor remains a subject of ongoing study and archaeological investigation. Its inclusion in the visitor itinerary offers a unique perspective on the hidden mechanisms that governed the movement of Rome's most powerful figures.