where did roman spectators watch chariot races

The first chariot appeared in the Bronze age as a vehicle of war. The Evolution Of Chariot Racing In The Ancient World The Chariot Race in the Hippodrome, Alexander von Wagner, 1882, Manchester Art Gallery In the sixth century’s Constantinople, one of such discussions went wrong, resulting in a horrible massacre known as the Nika riot. They were places where common people had a rare opportunity to see their emperor, and more importantly, engage in discussion with the imperial majesty. The most famous of them, the Circus Maximus in Rome and the Hippodrome in Constantinople, were the social and political hearts of the two imperial capitals. But grandiose racetracks were more than sporting arenas. The lucky winner could turn into a superstar, gaining fame and a good deal of fortune. Chariot drivers would mesmerize their spectators with displays of daring courage, skillful horsemanship, and tactical ingenuity as they strove for victory through a combination of speed, strength, and risk. Grand arenas, located in major imperial cities, were places of lavish spectacles, organized by the emperors to boost their popularity and prestige among the people. 1638, Museo del Pradoįor ancient Romans, nothing was more sensational than chariot racing. The Horses of Saint Mark, 2nd or 3rd century CE, Basilica di San Marco with The Chariot Race in the Hippodrome, Alexander von Wagner, 1882, Manchester Art Gallery and The Circus Maximus in Rome, Domenico Gargiulo and Viviano Codazzi, ca.

Where did roman spectators watch chariot races