Circus of Maxentius (Circo di Massenzio)

The Basics

Located between miles I and II of Rome's ancient Appian Way, the villa complex, which was commissioned by the Emperor Maxentius, is home the ruins of the imperial palace and the Mausoleo di Romolo (Tomb of Romulus). The highlight, though, is the Circus of Maxentius—also known as the Circus Maxentius, Circo di Massenzio, or, for many years, the Circus of Caracalla. In its heyday, the public stadium held 10,000 spectators; the obelisk that decorates Piazza Navona today once marked its center. Explore the site on a Vespa tour of ancient Rome, a guided bike ride, or independently.

Things to Know Before You Go

• This site is particularly interesting for ancient Roman history buffs.

• The Circus of Maxentius is an outdoor archaeological site, so wear a hat and sunscreen if you’re visiting in summer.

• Most of the site consists of uneven, overgrown terrain; it’s difficult to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.

• For older kids, a bike ride through along the Appian Way is a fun break from seeing Rome’s historic center on foot.

How to Get There

The Circus of Maxentius is located in the Villa of Maxentius at Via Appia Antica 153 between the Basilica of San Sebastiano and the tomb of Caecilia Metella inside the Appian Way Regional Park (Parco Regionale Appia Antica). You can reach it on bike or Vespa from center of Rome.

When to Get There

The archaeological ruins are part of an open-air park, so visit on a clear day with mild temperatures.

Roman Circuses

The circus, where games, political events, religious functions, and funerals were held, was the primary gathering place for ancient Romans. Italy's most important Roman circuses are located in Rome, Milan, Aquileia, and Marino.

Ways to explore

Located between miles 2 and 3 (kilometers 3.2 and 4.8) of Rome’s ancient Appian Way, most visitors explore the Villa of Maxentius on a walk or bike ride, and admission is free. Of course, group guided tours — that explain the site’s history — are available for a fee in advance. The villa complex, commissioned by Emperor Maxentius, is home to the ruins of the imperial palace and the Mausoleo di Romolo (Tomb of Romulus), but its highlight is the Circus of Maxentius. You can walk around the ruins of the public stadium and racetrack, which in its heyday held 10,000 spectators.

Accessibility

The site’s terrain is natural and uneven, making it difficult for wheelchair users.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Hat, sunscreen, water, snacks

What to wear

Comfortable clothes and shoes, sun protection

Not allowed

Touching ancient structures, climbing on ruins, littering

Amenities

English/Italian signage, maintained paths, nearby visitor center, restrooms

Address

The Appian Way, one of Rome’s oldest roads, is south of the city. Whether you drive there or take a tour, it’s best to explore it via bicycle or on foot.

Driving

From Rome’s center, take Via di San Giovanni in Laterano to Via di Porta San Giovanni, follow the A24 signs, and then exit at Via Appia Antica. There’s limited free parking on-site.

Public transportation

Take Metro Line B to Colosseo station, then transfer to bus 118 or 30 and get off at the Circo di Massenzio stop.

Best times to visit

Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography. It’s an open-air park, so visit on a clear day with mild temperatures.

Best days to visit

Come on a Sunday when the park is closed to motorized traffic.

Best months to visit

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Rome’s great outdoor archaeological sites.