Circo Massimo
About
The Circus Maximus, known in Italian as Circo Massimo, is an immense ancient Roman chariot‑racing arena situated in the valley between Rome’s Aventine and Palatine hills. Built at the end of the 2nd century BC, it measured 621 meters long and 118 meters wide, accommodating more than 150,000 spectators and setting the template for circuses across the Roman Empire. In the Imperial period the track was embellished with stone and marble, with a towering obelisk and a paved channel (spina) running through its centre. For centuries the site fell into disuse and was partially buried under accumulated earth and plant growth. Only in the 16th and 17th centuries did it begin to be repurposed as a market garden and later as a public park. Today the former stadium lies open to the public as a green space that hosts concerts, festivals, and cultural events, offering visitors a tangible link to Rome’s illustrious past. Visitors can stroll along the visible stone foundations, admire the remnants of the original oval track, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and historic district. The mix of archaeological heritage and contemporary cultural life makes the Circus Maximus a unique destination in the heart of Rome.
Highlights
- Ancient Circular Track
- Architectural Remnants
- Panoramic Views
- Cultural Events
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit the expansive open-air park.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours