Everyone knows the Colosseum. Even those who have never been to Rome have the huge walls before their eyes: it is the epitome of ancient Rome. Yet the monumental amphitheatre has been a permanent construction site since the decline of ancient Roman culture. In the Middle Ages its vaults were transformed into apartments, shops and workshops - and some of them into the residence of the powerful Roman noble family Frangipane. At that time, the popes resided in the nearby Lateran Basilica, and the Frangipane's residence often served them as a strategically favourable place of refuge. In the 16th century, the idea of the Colosseum as a place of suffering for Christian martyrs gained acceptance, which is why the entire building was to be converted into a gigantic church. The plans failed, but a Way of the Cross was built along the arena and the Colosseum was consecrated to the early Christian fighters for the faith. The Grand Tour.