The Circus Maximus: A Chaariot Race Track In Rome

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The Circus Maximus was a chariot race track in Rome. It was constructed around the sixth century B.C.E. It was the largest of four race tracks in Rome. It was a long oval shaped structure, and it was approximately 700 yards long and 135 yards wide (Circus Maximus). The race track was very narrow, and had one rectangular end. It had seats on two sides. The first two rows of seats belonged to senators and knights. This is a tradition that was also used in Roman theaters. Men and women could freely mingle at the race track, but this was not practiced at the theater and the Colosseum (Entertainment). The Circus Maximus was used for many events, such as The Roman games, gladiator fights, and of course, chariot races. The Roman games were held on many occasions. The games were originally religious, but they became less religion oriented. The games were solely meant for the entertainment of everyone. Emperors and magistrates went to great lengths to provide elaborate accommodations for spectators (Roman Games). …show more content…

Others gather to watch and view with enjoyment as these men fight to kill one another. The men who are fighting are usually slaves, prisoners of war, or criminals (Roman Games). Sometimes these men were able to fight for their freedom. If they won, they would be released. Chariot races consisted of seven laps around the circus. When a race begins, the gates were opened mechanically by an attendant. The fly open and the horses begin to run in their lanes until they reached the barriers. Once they reached the barriers the chariots are free to leave their lanes. Once the race is over, the winner is recognized by the