Circo Massimo: The Heart of Ancient Roman Spectacle
Explore Circo Massimo, Rome's ancient circus, and immerse yourself in the history of epic chariot races and Roman spectacle.
Circo Massimo, nestled in the heart of Rome, is a magnificent ancient venue that once hosted epic chariot races and grand public spectacles. This iconic site offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman civilization, allowing visitors to imagine the roar of the crowds and the thrill of the races that captivated the ancient world. As you stroll through its vast, open space, you can easily envision the vibrant atmosphere that filled this arena, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Eternal City.
A brief summary to circo massimo
- Via Galvani, 24, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, 00153, IT
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the vast grassy areas, soaking in the atmosphere of this ancient venue.
- Check local event listings, as the site occasionally hosts concerts and cultural events.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the site is expansive and you'll want to explore it thoroughly.
- Consider visiting nearby attractions such as the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum for a complete historical experience.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are near the Colosseum, head southeast on Via di Villa Peretti towards Via di San Giovanni in Laterano. Continue on this road for about 5 minutes until you reach Piazza del Colosseo. From here, walk along Via del Circo Massimo, which will lead you directly to Circo Massimo. The massive ancient structure will be on your right as you approach the end of the street.
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Metro
Take Line B (Blue Line) of the Metro from any station in Rome that connects to it. If you are near Termini Station, board the train towards Laurentina. Get off at the Circo Massimo stop. Once you exit the station, walk towards Via Galvani, and Circo Massimo will be just a short walk away in front of you.
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Bus
You can take bus number 81 or 673 from various points in Rome. If you are near Termini Station, board bus number 81 towards 'Largo di Torre Argentina' or bus 673 towards 'Piazza di Porta San Paolo'. Get off at the Circo Massimo stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the entrance of Circo Massimo located at Via Galvani.
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Tram
If you are close to the Trastevere area, take tram number 8 towards 'Piazza Venezia'. Get off at the stop 'Viale di Trastevere'. From there, you can walk or take bus number 3 towards 'Stazione Termini' and get off at the Circo Massimo stop. Circo Massimo is then just a few minutes walk from the bus stop.
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