Inside the thrilling chariot races of ancient Rome’s Circus Maximus

Inside the thrilling chariot races of ancient Rome’s Circus Maximus

Inside the thrilling chariot races of ancient Rome’s Circus Maximus 13 Minutes Read 2530 Words EN Cheering crowds, fast horses, dramatic accidents, and even a little sorcery made up a typical day of chariot racing in Rome as thousands flocked to watch their favorite spectator sport. NO HOLDING BACKA chariot race in Rome’s Circus Maximus, depicted in a relief from the second century. Archaeological Museum of Colfiorito. SCALA, FLORENCE By María Engracia Muñoz-Santos Published May 26, 2026 According to Livy, Rome’s Circus Maximus—the hippodrome nestled between the Palatine and Aventine Hills—was the site of the mythical rape of the Sabine women, a tragic event in Rome’s founding legend. The newly established, predominantly male state was facing a demographic crisis. After having his requests of intermarriage rejected, Romulus, Rome’s mythical founder, invited the Sabine people to the Consualia, a festival for the harvest god. Romulus distracted his audience with a dramatic chariot race that would…