Circus Maximus Flashcards
How many spectators could it hold?
385,000
Where would the Emperor sit?
The Pulvinar, on the slopes of the Palatine
Why did people attend the races?
Release of tension, held on holidays, people enjoyed seeing their heroes, gambling, supporting teams
What were the Carceres?
12 starting gates, in a curve so there was no advantages
What were the Metae?
Turning post, large bronze cones
What protection would a charioteer have?
Leather cap, padding round his waist, a knife to cut him free from the reins
How would a race start
The Emperor would throw a white napkin and the gates would be opened
How long was a race?
7 laps, 5 miles, 15 minutes
Team colours?
White(Albata), Red(Russata), Blue(Veneta), Green(Prasina)
What would the winners receive?
The victor’s palm, crowns and chains of gold
What were the dangers?
Possibility of crashing into other chariots of spina,
cornering too close to metae,
being entangled in reins,
being run over by other chariots
Who were the charioteers?
Mainly professionals, originally from the lower class, freedmen and slaves
Famous charioteers?
Diocles won the equivalent of £12 million in prize money,
Stars were called miliarii
What were factiones?
Teams sponsored by the emperor who built stable for each team with coaches, trainers, blacksmiths, vets and grooms
