Circus Maximus: Rome's Ancient Entertainment Hub

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Explore the grounds of Rome's largest ancient stadium, where chariot races and public games thrilled vast crowds for centuries.

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Circus Maximus

The Circus Maximus, located in the valley between the Aventine and Palatine Hills, was the largest stadium in ancient Rome, primarily used for chariot races and public games. Today, it's a public park where visitors can explore the historical site and imagine the grandeur of ancient Roman entertainment.

A brief summary to Circus Maximus

Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, 00186, IT
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Circus Maximus.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum for a comprehensive historical experience.
Check for scheduled events or concerts to experience the Circus Maximus as a modern entertainment venue.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves a good amount of walking.
Take advantage of the informational placards around the perimeter to learn about the history and architecture of the Circus Maximus.

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Getting There

Public Transport

The most convenient way to reach the Circus Maximus is via the Rome Metro. Take Line B (the blue line) to the Circo Massimo station, which is located directly in front of the site. A single metro ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes.
Bus

Several bus lines stop near the Circus Maximus, including lines 81, 118, 160, 628, 715, and 716. A single bus ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times.
Walking

The Circus Maximus is easily accessible on foot from many central Rome locations. It's a pleasant walk from the Colosseum and Roman Forum, allowing you to take in the sights of the city. From the Colosseum, walk southwest along Via di San Gregorio, and the Circus Maximus will be on your left.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Rome. A short taxi ride within the city center should cost between €8 and €15. Taxi fares start at €3.50 during the day and €6.50 at night, plus a charge per kilometer. Be sure the taxi is official (white with a 'TAXI' sign) and that the meter is running.

Discover more about Circus Maximus

The Circus Maximus, or Circo Massimo in Italian, was the first and largest stadium in ancient Rome, nestled between the Aventine and Palatine hills. Dating back to the 6th century BC, it served as a grand venue for chariot races, public games, and various mass entertainment spectacles. The stadium's construction evolved over centuries, with emperors like Julius Caesar and Trajan making significant expansions and improvements. At its peak, the Circus Maximus could accommodate over 150,000 spectators, dwarfing even the Colosseum in size.Chariot races were the main attraction, with skilled drivers, often slaves seeking freedom, competing for prestige and prizes. The races involved multiple laps around the track, with collisions and fierce competition adding to the excitement. The Circus Maximus also hosted religious ceremonies, public feasts, gladiator fights, and animal hunts, making it a central hub for Roman social and political life. Emperors would often appear at the Circus to connect with the people and enhance their public image.After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Circus Maximus continued to be used for events until the 6th century AD. Over time, the stadium fell into disrepair, with its stones repurposed for new buildings. In the 20th century, the area was transformed into a public park, allowing visitors to walk the grounds and envision the ancient spectacles. Today, the Circus Maximus hosts concerts, festivals, and other large public gatherings, maintaining its role as an entertainment venue. While little remains of the original structure, informational displays around the perimeter help visitors understand the site's history and significance.