Circuses
Circus Maximus
The Circus Maximus, one of Rome's largest entertainment centers, was Rome's prime circus. Its unique shape made in great for hosting chariot races and many other Roman events. Each year in ancient Rome,starting from the early legendary period, the Circus Maximus became the venue for an important and popular celebration. At one time the circus Maximus held as many as over a quarter of a million people. Many people came to the Circus to watch the chariot races which had between 20 to 60 days devoted to them each year with 25 races each day. Between the races there was boxing, religious ceremonies and even the occasional gladiatorial battle. Circuses, along with other public events, were endorsed heavily by the popular Julius Caesar. Because of this governmental endorsement, the people gained trust in political officials. Circuses created something to occupy the people during times of difficulty in the government. The Circus Maximus originally had wooden seats but it had to expand to fit the growing population so Caesar had the seats increased from 150,000 to 250,000 and the wooden seats replaced by marble. However today there is little left of this grand architectural wonder because many people have stolen the marble seats and much of it had degenerated over time.