The Colosseum was built with an elaborate system of underground tunnels

and chambers, which were used to hold animals and gladiators before they were brought out to the arena. The underground tunnels were also used to transport the bodies of the dead gladiators and animals out of the arena. The underground tunnels were also used to house the complex system of pulleys, ropes, and hoists that were used to raise and lower the floor of the arena.

The Colosseum was originally covered with a canvas awning,

known as the velarium, which was used to provide shade for the spectators. The awning was stretched over the top of the Colosseum and was held in place by ropes and pulleys. This allowed the spectators to watch the events in the arena without being exposed to the sun. The velarium also helped to keep the Colosseum cool during the hot summer months.