Circ Roma is the Roman circus in Tarragona, on Rambla Vella, and one of four Roman sites open to the public in the city. Chariot races were held here from the end of the 1st century AD. Houses were later built on top of the arena, so a network of vaults, tunnels and rooms lies beneath the modern streets. A multimedia room recreates the circus, an audio guide explains the layout, and the tower gives a wide view over the city. Entry is €5 per adult.
A Roman circus built for chariot races
The circus was built at the end of the 1st century AD and used for chariot racing. Its track was over 300 metres long and held more than 30,000 spectators watching the races and public events.
In later centuries, houses were built on top of the arena. Because of this, the lower levels, with their corridors and rooms, were covered and kept in good condition. Today the ruins sit under parts of the modern town, and the old Roman streets can still be traced beneath buildings in the city.
What is inside
The underground part is a labyrinth of vaults, passages and rooms. One of the tunnels is especially tall, and it is one of the parts of the site that stays in visitors' minds. The site works well with a baby stroller, and children enjoy exploring the tunnels.
A multimedia room presents reconstructions of the Roman Circus, which help make sense of the empty spaces below. An audio guide covers the site in detail, and the displays explain what each area was used for. A small museum of artefacts also sits within the complex.
Toilets are available on site.
The tower and the combined ticket
A tower connects to the ruins, and from its top there is a 360-degree view of Tarragona. The amphitheatre is visible from above, and the view is one of the clearest ways to understand how the circus sat within the city.
The entry fee is €5 per adult for this site alone. The city has four Roman sites open to the public, and a combined ticket covering all of them costs €7.50. If you have limited time, a single-entry ticket for an individual site costs less.
Preguntas frecuentes
How much is the entrance fee?
Entry is €5 per adult for Circ Roma. A combined ticket covering the four Roman sites in Tarragona costs €7.50.
Is Circ Roma good for children?
The site is suitable for children, and the tunnels are a highlight for them. The entrance also works with a baby stroller.
Is Circ Roma wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the entrance is wheelchair accessible.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Getting tickets in advance is recommended.
