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Is Rome's Colosseum falling apart?

The Italian government is investigating reports that pieces of rock have fallen off the Colosseum in Rome. Witnesses reported seeing the fallen masonry on Christmas Day. It has raised concerns about the maintenance of the monument.

Reporter

Kathy Harcombe

Report

The emblem of the Roman Empire where gladiators once fought wild beasts and each other to entertain spectators. Built almost 2000 years ago, the Colosseum is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and engineering.

Now though there are fears that this mighty monument may be crumbling. Italian environmentalists have frequently raised the alarm about the precarious state of the Colosseum.

They claim that exhaust fumes and the vibrations from vehicles and a nearby subway are damaging the monument. But the Colosseum authorities say there is no cause for panic.

But there is sufficient fear over the state of the building to warrant a US$ 33 million restoration project due to begin in March.

Kathy Harcombe, BBC News, Rome