Friday, November 1, 2019

Visit to Circus Maximus

The Circus Maximus was the first and largest stadium in ancient Rome.
In fact its origins predate the Roman empire, the earliest triumphal ludi (public games) were held at the Circus in the time of Tarquin King of Rome (535–509 BC). 
 (He also ordered the creation of sewers)

During the time of the empire it was a Roman chariot-racing stadium and mass entertainment venue.
It measured 621 m in length and 118 m in width and could accommodate over 150,000 spectators.
For centuries it was covered by forest, buildings and so forth. It has been excavated and is now the site is a public park right in the middle of Rome.
We took advantage of a 3D experience and watched the history of the site as it developed over the centuries via this wonderful technology while sitting in the stands of the virtual stadium and being in front of the shops that would have existed. All very entertaining and interesting indeed.


Interestingly during the fascist era and the time of the 'Third Rome' the venue was transformed into an exhibition space and used for open-air Fascist mass events. 
There is an interesting article on Fascist architecture here https://erenow.net/common/mussolinis-rome-rebuilding-the-eternal-city/5.php

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 After the war it was cleared and is now a popular are for walkers and joggers. 

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