Restorers are now ready to move into the second phase of a delicate extensive restoration project concerning Rome's most famous monument. The first phase, involving the cleaning and reparation of the travertine stone, was completed within schedule, Italy's Heritage Minister, Dario Franceschini, announced last week. The second phase concerns the rooms and passageways under the former arena, at the moment exposed to the elements and subject to deterioration. Plans have also been advanced to cover at least part of the arena with a stage, that could allow theatrical perfomances and concerts to be held inside the Flavian Amphitheatre (better known as the Colosseum) in the future.
The entire work project was financed by Italy's leading shoe manufacturer Diego Della Valle, producer of world-famous shoes under the trade mark Tod's. Della Valle has delegated total funding of 25 mill. believed to be the biggest ever sponsorship for a single restoration project in Italy, which will be completed in 2018. The Colosseum has remained open to visitors during the entire first phase of the work and will continue to be accessible throughout the second phase, which will also involve the creation of a new visitor centre and various facilities.
Info. www.tods.com - info Colosseum: www.coopculture.it
