Chariot Racing

Question 1

The Circus Maximus

Answer 1

• The Circus Maximus in Rome is located centrally in the city, showing the sport’s popularity.
• Thought to hold 250,000 people.
• Consisted of two long parallel walls, one rounded end, and one straight end that housed stables/ starting boxes.
• 621x118m

Question 2

Teams

Answer 2

• There were originally four teams- green, red, blue and white. Later two more were added: purple and gold.
• Each faction would have between one and three charioteers in each race.
• Each charioteer commonly had four horses.
• Factional support was very strong.

Question 3

Rules

Answer 3

• Chariot racing was highly dangerous with few rules.
• Charioteers would try to ‘shipwreck’ each other.
• They also drew lots for the starting boxes. The place closest to the Spina (inside wall) was the most desirable, but also the most dangerous.
• The race was usually 7 laps, and each lap was marked by the lowering of an ovum (egg) place on the spina.