<P> The arena itself was 83 meters by 48 meters ( 272 ft by 157 ft / 280 by 163 Roman feet ) . It comprised a wooden floor covered by sand ( the Latin word for sand is harena or arena ) , covering an elaborate underground structure called the hypogeum ( literally meaning `` underground '' ) . The hypogeum was not part of the original construction but was ordered to be built by Emperor Domitian . Little now remains of the original arena floor , but the hypogeum is still clearly visible . It consisted of a two - level subterranean network of tunnels and cages beneath the arena where gladiators and animals were held before contests began . Eighty vertical shafts provided instant access to the arena for caged animals and scenery pieces concealed underneath ; larger hinged platforms , called hegmata , provided access for elephants and the like . It was restructured on numerous occasions ; at least twelve different phases of construction can be seen . </P>
<P> The arena itself was 83 meters by 48 meters ( 272 ft by 157 ft / 280 by 163 Roman feet ) . It comprised a wooden floor covered by sand ( the Latin word for sand is harena or arena ) , covering an elaborate underground structure called the hypogeum ( literally meaning `` underground '' ) . The hypogeum was not part of the original construction but was ordered to be built by Emperor Domitian . Little now remains of the original arena floor , but the hypogeum is still clearly visible . It consisted of a two - level subterranean network of tunnels and cages beneath the arena where gladiators and animals were held before contests began . Eighty vertical shafts provided instant access to the arena for caged animals and scenery pieces concealed underneath ; larger hinged platforms , called hegmata , provided access for elephants and the like . It was restructured on numerous occasions ; at least twelve different phases of construction can be seen . </P>
what is on the floor of the colosseum
what is on the floor of the colosseum
sand
sand