CIRCUS MAXIMUS
(RECONSTRUCTION)
In this reconstruction the chariots are stationary at the starting line,
although they most certainly would have burst forth with a running start
from the starting gates (carceres, literally
"prisons") that can be seen at the left end of the Circus (within the arches).
The infield (spina) has the three metae topped by eggs at
both ends. Although it is by no means clear in this picture, the
dolphin lap counter is at the left end of the spina, while the
egg lap counter is next-to-last on the right end, next to the small
obelisk (installed by Augustus in 10 BC). The large obelisk in the
center of the spina is the one brought to Rome by Constantine II
in 357 AD. Various statues, columns, and architectural forms occupy
the rest of the spina.
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