The Circus Maximus and the Colosseum were two of the most famous entertainment venues in ancient Rome. While the Colosseum was constructed in 80 CE under Emperor Titus, the Circus Maximus had existed long before, dating back to the early days of the Roman Republic. After the Colosseum's completion, many changes took place in Rome’s entertainment culture, but the Circus Maximus remained an important site for public spectacles.

Circus Maximus vs. Colosseum: Different Purposes

Before discussing what happened to the Circus Maximus after the Colosseum was built, it's important to understand that these two venues served different functions:

• Circus Maximus: Primarily used for chariot racing, one of the most popular and long-lasting forms of entertainment in Rome. It could hold up to 250,000 spectators, making it the largest stadium in Rome.

• Colosseum: Built for gladiator combats, wild animal hunts, and public executions. It had a capacity of around 50,000–80,000 spectators and provided a more intense and dramatic form of entertainment.

Because these venues had different entertainment purposes, the construction of the Colosseum did not immediately replace or overshadow the Circus Maximus.

Conclusion

Although the Colosseum introduced new forms of entertainment, the Circus Maximus remained a dominant and beloved venue for chariot racing for centuries after its construction. It was only with the fall of the Roman Empire and changing cultural values that the Circus eventually declined. Today, the site of the Circus Maximus is a historical landmark in Rome, serving as a reminder of the grandeur of Roman entertainment. shutdown123