A view of cleaned up Colosseum in Rome, Italy on July 1, 2016.The Colosseum has emerged more imposing than ever after its most extensive restoration, a multimillion-euro cleaning to remove a dreary, undignified patina of soot and grime from the ancient arena, which has been assailed for decades by pollution in traffic-clogged Rome. In a project largely funded by fashion and shoewear group Tod’s, the amphitheatre where gladiators once jousted with lions has been water-sprayed to remove centuries of encrusted dirt. Works to strengthen the arched structures of the northern and southern facades and replace metal gates and barriers in the ground level arches have also been completed.Tod’s, whose billionaire owner Diego Della Valle reportedly put up 25 million euros for the works, said it was proud to have been part of the restoration of ‘a true historical symbol of Italy.’ Completed in 80 AD, the Colosseum was the biggest amphitheatre built during the Roman empire. It stands 48.5 metres high and was capable of hosting 80,000 spectators. It now welcomes more than six million visitors a year. Photo by Eric Vandeville/ABACAPRESS.COM