Circus Unveiled by Aerial Imaging Techniques
A Roman circus, capable of accommodating over 5,000 spectators, has been unearthed in the province of Ãlava in the Basque Country of Spain. Located in the ruins of the ancient Roman town of Iruña-Veleia, once home to 10,000 inhabitants during its golden age, this discovery has captivated archaeologists.
The circus was uncovered through a joint effort by archaeologists from the ARKIKUS past heritage virtual reconstruction project in Spain, the Ãlava Provincial Council, and the Basque regional government. Employing aerial photography and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology, the team was able to meticulously scan and map the site.
A Colossal Structure From Ancient Times
The unearthed circus is a monumental structure, measuring over 280 meters in length and approximately 72 meters wide, making it roughly three times the size of a standard 11-a-side football field.
Remnants of the ancient circus can be seen in aerial imagery, revealing faint outlines of its structure. These traces suggest that the site hosted chariot races and other entertaining spectacles for the town's residents.
Expanding Knowledge of Ancient Iberian Life
This discovery marks the third known Roman circus in the northern half of the Iberian Peninsula, providing valuable insights into Roman life in this region.
Further investigations at Iruña-Veleia have uncovered additional structures and urban infrastructure concealed beneath modern structures. These findings include potential roads, public squares, residential areas, religious buildings, and water management systems, shedding further light on the town's past.
Iruña-Veleia: A Vital Stop Along the Roman Road
These discoveries highlight the significance of Iruña-Veleia as a key stop along the Roman road connecting the present-day cities of Astorga in Spain and Bordeaux in France.
While the precise dating of the circus and the surrounding structures remains undetermined, archaeologists confirm their ancient origin, predating the decline of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD.
Summary:
The recent discovery of a massive Roman circus in the Basque Country of Spain has significantly contributed to our understanding of Roman life in the Iberian Peninsula. Using advanced aerial imaging technology, archaeologists have unearthed a colossal structure capable of accommodating thousands of spectators. The discovery, along with other significant findings at the site, provides valuable insight into the history and urban development of the ancient Roman town of Iruña-Veleia, highlighting its vital role as a stop along a major Roman road. The unearthed circus is a testament to the grandeur and entertainment value of Roman culture, offering a glimpse into the rich history of this region.