Circus of Maxentius (Circo di Massenzio)

Overview

The Circus of Maxentius is an ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium located on the Via Appia Antica. It was built by Emperor Maxentius in the early 4th century AD and is part of a larger imperial complex that includes a palace and a mausoleum.

The Circus of Maxentius is one of the best-preserved Roman circuses and provides valuable insights into ancient Roman engineering and entertainment.

Historical Site Archaeological Site

Location

Address

Via Appia Antica 153, Rome

Neighborhood: Appio-Latino

Coordinates

41.864089, 12.531130

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Admission

Adults

€12

Children

€6 (under 18)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• flowers
• pleasant weather

summer

hot

• extended hours

autumn

cool, pleasant

• fall colors

winter

cold, some rain

• holiday lights
• festive decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring ID
Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella hat

not allowed

large bags drones weapons

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven surfaces
• stairs

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

Euro

Typical Costs

entry €10

parking €5

food €15

souvenirs €20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, light clothing in summer, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• official website, third-party platforms
• 48 hours in advance
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Circus of Maxentius Official App

Size: 50 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Main entrance

Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Rome Ciampino Airport

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 25 minutes

taxi

€35-45 25 min

public_transport

€2 40 min

From City Center

Distance: 4 km

metro

€1.50 15 min

bus

€1.50 20 min

taxi

€10-15 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful architecture

Historical Significance: Important events happened here, part of the larger imperial complex

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for locals
Best food at the cafe near the main entrance
Visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience

Local Recommendations

• Try local cafe at the entrance
• Ask for guide Mario
• Visit nearby Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Ciao

thank_you Grazie

where_is Dov'è

how_much Quanto costa

beautiful Bellissimo

ticket Biglietto

Guide Languages: Italian, English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle

Result: Great shot of the entrance

#Rome #History #CircusMaxentius

Central Spina

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Impressive view of the central spina

#AncientRome #Archaeology #Travel

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, general public areas

prohibited areas restricted zones, exhibitions

flash photography not allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without permission

tripod policy restricted, permit may be required

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Religious Site

San Giovanni Cathedral

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min