Roman Circus of Mérida

Illustration

Carole Raddato
by
published on 31 May 2018
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The Roman circus of Augusta Emerita is a ruined Roman circus in Mérida (Spain). Inaugurated in the first quarter of the first century CE, it was used for chariot racing, and was modelled on the Circus Maximus in Rome. Measuring 440 metres (1140 feet) in length and 114 metres (374 feet) width, it is one of the largest and best-preserved examples of a Roman circus. It could accommodate up to 30,000 spectators. An inscription suggests that it was restored in the 4th century CE.

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About the Author

Carole Raddato
Carole maintains the popular ancient history photo-blog Following Hadrian, where she travels the world in the footsteps of emperor Hadrian.

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APA Style

Raddato, C. (2018, May 31). Roman Circus of Mérida. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/8833/roman-circus-of-merida/

Chicago Style

Raddato, Carole. "Roman Circus of Mérida." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified May 31, 2018. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/8833/roman-circus-of-merida/.

MLA Style

Raddato, Carole. "Roman Circus of Mérida." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 31 May 2018. Web. 07 Oct 2024.

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