Gladiator combat was a vicious sport that was popular in the ancient Roman empire. Men, women and animals fought in one-on-one combats up to large group combats. Some were prisoners captured by the Roman army, who saw this as a way of life preferable to rotting in captivity in a cell.

Although rare, it was possible for them to gain their freedom by being successful and popular with the crowds.

Chariot races were held in a circus, so named because of its circular shape. The oldest and largest circus in Rome was the Circus Maximus.

Originally there was no building, just a flat sandy track with temporary markers. As the popularity continued, the venue was improved over time to cater for the large crowds.