Lego has unveiled its largest-ever set — a model of Rome’s Colosseum. The 9,036-piece set — intended for enduring toy-lovers over 18 — will be strategically released on this year’s Black Friday, November 27.
The three-story model recreates the Roman amphitheater in great detail, from the columns and arches on its façade to its travertine paving stones and surrounding olive trees.
Built between 70 and 80 CE, the Colosseum was once the world’s largest amphitheater. With a capacity of up to 80,000 spectators, it was used for public entertainment events like gladiatorial contests, enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Roman mythology. It was also used for executions and animal hunts.
Earthquakes and stone-robbers throughout the centuries have caused damage to the Colosseum, but it remains an enduring symbol of Imperialist Rome and a major tourist attraction. In 2001, it was crowned as one of the New7Wonders of the World.
The Colosseum set will break the record for the largest ever Lego set, unseating the 2017 title-holder, the 7,541-piece Star Wars Millennium Falcon. Prior to the Star Wars set, the largest set was the 5,923-piece Taj Mahal model.
But the pleasure of recreating the Colosseum won’t come cheap. The set will cost you $549.99. If you can afford it, just keep in mind that Rome wasn’t built in a day.
