Whether you’re planning a learning unit about Italy or just looking for a rainy-day project that packs a punch, this 3D Paper Colosseum is the perfect “ticket” to Ancient Rome!
Designed specifically with preschool and elementary students in mind, this craft skips the complicated architecture and goes straight to the fun.
With just a few basic supplies like paper, scissors, and glue, your kids can build one of the world’s most famous landmarks right on the kitchen table.
It’s a fantastic way to bring history to life while practicing those essential fine motor skills.
Colosseum 3D Paper Craft
Materials
- Colosseum 3D craft template (Etsy link)
- Scissors
- Glue
- Markers/colored pencils to decorate (optional)
Instructions
First, download and print out the Colosseum 3D craft template.
If you want to color your Colosseum craft, it’s easiest to do that now before you begin assembling the craft.
Now, cut out all of the pieces of the craft in the template.
Attach elements B and C together using the tabs to form a circle.
Create a continuous circle out of piece D by curving it around and gluing the tab to the other side.
Fold in the bottom tabs in on piece D.
Then glue piece D to the inside circle on the base using the bottom tabs.
Fold in the tabs on the bottom of the circle made up by the B and C and glue to the second circle on the base.
Fold in the bottom tabs on element A from the template and glue it to the outer dotted line on the base.
And now your Colosseum craft is complete!
This is such a fun and easy craft to help kids learn all about Italy! We hope you enjoy making it as much as we did.
Fun Facts About the Colosseum
Take some time to talk about these fun Colosseum facts while you are making your 3D craft!
- The Giant Stadium: Imagine a football stadium, but almost 2,000 years old! The Colosseum could hold over 50,000 people—that’s more than most modern basketball arenas.
- The Big Name: Its real name was the Flavian Amphitheatre, but people called it the Colosseum because it was built next to a “colossal” (giant) 100-foot-tall bronze statue of a Roman Emperor.
- A Giant Sunshade: On hot, sunny days in Rome, the Romans would roll out a massive canvas awning called the Velarium to keep the crowd in the shade. It was moved using a complex system of ropes and pulleys, almost like a giant sail on a ship!
- Hidden Trap Doors: Underneath the floor was a maze of tunnels and rooms called the Hypogeum. This is where animals and performers stayed. They would use secret trap doors and wooden elevators to suddenly “pop up” onto the stage!
- Free Admission: In Ancient Rome, you didn’t have to buy a ticket to go inside. Entry was free for everyone, and the crowd was even given free snacks during the shows!
- Flooded for Sea Battles: Early in its history, the Romans would sometimes fill the arena floor with water so they could have miniature sea battles with real boats!
Kids Books About the Colosseum and Italy
Where is the Colosseum? by Jim O’Connor- This book takes young readers on a journey through the nearly 2,000-year history of Rome’s most famous landmark, from its grand construction to the legendary spectacles held within its walls. It uses engaging storytelling and illustrations to explain how this massive amphitheater became a symbol of the Roman Empire and why it still captivates visitors today.
Living in . . . Italy: Ready-to-Read Level 2 by Chloe Perkins– This book follows a young girl named Pia as she introduces readers to the daily life, culture, and beautiful landmarks of her home country, Italy. It is an accessible Level 2 reader that uses simple text and colorful illustrations to teach kids about Italian food, language, and traditions.
Everything About Italy: A Fun and Colorful Guide to the Heart of the Roman Empire by Nora Callen– This vibrant guide invites children to explore the rich wonders of Italy, from its ancient Roman roots and iconic landmarks to its world-famous food and festivals. Through a mix of fun facts and colorful visuals, it provides a comprehensive yet kid-friendly look at what makes the heart of the Mediterranean so unique.
