The Origins of the Circus Maximus
The origins of the Circus Maximus date back to the early days of Rome, during the period of the Roman Kingdom. It is believed that the first version of the circus was built by Lucius Tarquinius Priscus, the legendary fifth king of Rome, in the 6th century BCE (around 600 BCE). However, at that time, it was a simple, open-air venue without permanent seating or structures.
According to Roman tradition, the first games at the Circus Maximus were held during the reign of Romulus, Rome’s mythical founder, as part of the Consualia festival, which honored the god Consus. The festival included chariot races, which later became the main attraction of the circus.
Expansion During the Roman Republic
As Rome grew into a powerful republic, so did the Circus Maximus. Over the centuries, the structure was gradually improved and expanded. By the 2nd century BCE, wooden seating and more permanent structures were added to accommodate larger crowds. The Roman Senate also oversaw renovations to make the circus a more formal and organized entertainment venue.
The Grand Reconstruction by Julius Caesar
A major transformation occurred under Julius Caesar in the mid-1st century BCE. Around 50 BCE, Caesar ordered an extensive reconstruction of the Circus Maximus, increasing its size and adding more permanent stone and brick structures. This expansion allowed the circus to hold an estimated 150,000 spectators, making it the largest sports arena in Rome.
Caesar’s version of the Circus Maximus included a spina, the central barrier that divided the track and was decorated with statues, obelisks, and sacred monuments. This feature became an iconic part of the circus in later years. shutdown123