Circus Maximus
Located at Via del Circo Massimo, 00186 Roma, Italy this is Ancient Roman architecture was used for a racetrack was used for Roman events such as Gladiator fights, Roman games, and chariot races. It was first originally built in 6th century CE by the first Roman kings and it was remodelled and excavated in the 20th century CE. under the Emperors Claudius and Trajan, It was rebuilt in marble and brick. It stands today as one of the city’s most important public spaces as it hosts huge crowds for music concerts and rallies. This circus is found in the valley between the Palatine and the Aventine Hills. It is the largest and oldest public space in Rome.
In the 19th century CE, this site was used for industry and even a gasworks. In the 1930s the area was cleared and converted into a park made to resemble the original form of the circus. Also in the 1930s, the site was excavated again and the original seats were revealed, as were the starting gates. The main part of the circus is still used for large public events such as concerts and rallies. The track that was originally covered in sand was measured to be 540 x 80 m. It had 12 starting gates for chariots arranged in an arc at the open end of the track. There were decorated barriers and marks to show the chariots how far they were running or going around the track. The chariot races were very popular and successful charioteers attained the equivalent of modern superstar status. This was a form of entertainment and excitement for the Romans. They engaged in these races with much energy and attention.
In the 19th century CE, this site was used for industry and even a gasworks. In the 1930s the area was cleared and converted into a park made to resemble the original form of the circus. Also in the 1930s, the site was excavated again and the original seats were revealed, as were the starting gates. The main part of the circus is still used for large public events such as concerts and rallies. The track that was originally covered in sand was measured to be 540 x 80 m. It had 12 starting gates for chariots arranged in an arc at the open end of the track. There were decorated barriers and marks to show the chariots how far they were running or going around the track. The chariot races were very popular and successful charioteers attained the equivalent of modern superstar status. This was a form of entertainment and excitement for the Romans. They engaged in these races with much energy and attention.