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Ruins of the Circo Romano: Echoes of Ancient Milan

Discover the ancient Ruins of the Circo Romano in Milan, a historical landmark showcasing the city's Roman heritage.

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Explore the remnants of the Circo Romano, a 3rd-century Roman circus in Milan, once a grand venue for chariot races and public spectacles. Though now in ruins, the site offers a glimpse into Milan's Roman past, showcasing the scale of the arena and its historical significance.

A brief summary to Ruins of the Circo Romano

  • Via Circo, 12, Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, 20123, IT
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos of the ruins.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the ground can be uneven in some areas.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio for a full day of exploration.
  • Check for any free guided tours that may provide additional insights into the site's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Duomo, walk west on Via Torino until you reach Corso di Porta Ticinese. Turn left and continue straight until you reach the canal. Cross the canal and continue to Via Circo. Turn right, and the Ruins of the Circo Romano will be on your left at Via Circo, 12. The walk is about 20-30 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro to the Missori M3 stop. From there, walk along Corso Italia, then turn onto Via Santa Sofia, followed by Via Circo. The ruins will be on your right. Alternatively, many bus and tram lines stop near Via Circo. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Milan. A short taxi ride from the city center to Via Circo, 12 will typically cost between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and the time of day. Taxi fares have a base charge that varies from €4.10 to €7.90, plus a per kilometer charge of approximately €1.32.

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Discover more about Ruins of the Circo Romano

The Ruins of the Circo Romano, located in the heart of Milan, offer a captivating journey back to the city's Roman past. Built in the late 3rd to early 4th century AD, this ancient circus was a significant entertainment hub in Mediolanum (Roman Milan), primarily used for chariot races and public games. The arena was the largest Roman circus built during the era of Diocletian's Tetrarchy. Measuring approximately 470 meters in length and 85 meters in width, the Circo Romano was among the largest circuses in the Roman Empire. It could accommodate thousands of spectators who gathered to witness thrilling sports competitions on horseback, driven by both chariots and quadrigas, as well as gladiator fights. The structure featured an elliptical track divided by a central spina, starting gates (carceres), and spectator seating supported by vaulted substructures made of Roman brick and stone. Today, the ruins are integrated into Milan's modern urban landscape, providing a tangible connection to the city's layered history. While little remains of the original structure, visitors can still appreciate the scale of the arena and imagine the excitement that once filled the air. The remnants, including a surviving tower (Torre del Circo Romano), evoke the grandeur of ancient Rome and offer a unique contrast to the surrounding modern architecture. Exploring the Ruins of the Circo Romano is free and open to the public, allowing visitors to wander among the ancient stones and reflect on Milan's rich heritage. The site is conveniently located near other attractions, making it an ideal stop for history enthusiasts and tourists seeking a glimpse into Milan's Roman past.

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