The Colosseum had a retractable roof
The ancient Roman Colosseum boasted a retractable fabric roof, the "velarium," operated by 1,000 sailors, providing shade for 50,000 spectators 2,000 years ago.
Imagine a 2,000-year-old stadium with a retractable roof! The Roman Colosseum featured a sophisticated fabric awning, the "velarium," providing shade for up to 50,000 spectators. Around 1,000 Roman sailors, skilled with ropes and pulleys from their naval duties, expertly operated this massive covering.
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