LUDI CIRCENSES
The most popular ludi were the competitions that originally took
place in the Circus Maximus, i.e., chariot races, gladiatorial contests,
and animal hunts. Eventually, after the building of the Flavian Amphitheater
(popularly known as the Colosseum), the last two spectacles were moved
to that site. Although these amphitheater sports were popular enough,
the chariot races in the Circus Maximus remained the favorite spectator
sport of the Romans. Chariot races were a main feature of the Ludi Romani
(along
with military parades), but were also part of the other ludi.
Roman not only loved the tremendous excitement of these dangerous high
speed races, but they were also fanatical about their support of the various
racing factions that derived their names from the colors worn by their
charioteers: the red, green, blue, and white. The fanaticism of the
spectators sometimes led to disturbances in the grandstand. The factions
were owned by businessmen and included the horses, chariots, stables, equipment,
and drives, who were mostly slaves (although successful became very wealthy
and purchased their freedom). The owners rented the horses, chariots,
and drivers to the public officials in charge of the ludi.
The Circus Maximus was the oldest and largest public area in Rome
(1/3 mile long and 73 yards wide).
This reconstruction shows the Circus Maximus with its infield area
called the spina
("spine") and the imperial box built by Augustus on the other side
of the spina toward the left end of the Circus. Click here
for another reconstruction of the Circus Maximus.
Here is what the Circus Maximus looks like today.
Thanks
to Leo Curran.
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