Imbibe the atmosphere of Ancient Rome at Circo Massimo.
Imbibe the atmosphere of Ancient Rome at Circo Massimo. Circo Massimo, or the Circus Maximus, is an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium.
Lying in the valley between the Aventine and Palatine hills, it was the first and largest stadium in ancient Rome and later its Empire, accommodating up to 150,000 spectators. Circo Massimo has become the model for circuses not only throughout the Roman Empire but the whole world. Today, it is a public park that draws millions of history-lovers from all over the world.
You will understand the significance of Circo Massimo when you imagine all the public games that took place here thousands of years ago. The Circus was Rome’s largest venue for ludi, the annual games which were connected to religious festivals.
Ranging in duration and scope, ludi always opened with a flamboyant parade, followed by spectacular celebrations held over several days that involved religious ceremonies and public feasts, horse and chariot racing, athletics, plays and recitals, beast-hunts and gladiator fights.
These days, Circo Massimo still offers grand spectacles, having served as a stage for Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones, Sting and more.
Circo Massimo
Via del Circo Massimo, Rome