- TURY.CLUB
- Tourist Objects
- Spain
- Tarragona
- Roman Circus of Tarragona
The circus was undoubtedly the most popular folk show in the Roman world. This ancient structure once hosted exciting chariot races, usually drawn by two or four horses.<br /><br />The building was built at the end of the 1st century AD, during the reign of Domitian, and was part of a large provincial monumental complex that occupied the lower terrace. To this day, the structure remains in exceptionally good condition.<br /><br />The Roman Circus of Tarraco measured approximately 325 meters in length and a width of 100 to 115 meters. It was built on powerful cement vaults, which served a dual function: on the one hand, they were the foundation on which the stands, stairs and upper platform were located; on the other hand, they served as internal passages that allowed spectators to be distributed throughout the building. Here was the top platform of the building and stands along three sides, while inside there were karras or chariot departure points.<br /><br />The stands were separated from the sand (the area where the show took place) by a wall over 2 meters high - this podium had the function of protecting spectators in case accidents occurred during the show.<br /><br />Recent archaeological excavations have also discovered structures in the bowels of the current building of the Tarragona City Council. <br /><br />Current evidence suggests that during the 5th century the building lost at least part of its original function.
