Chariots Return to Rome

The city of Rome, Italy has recently revealed plans to recreate ancient chariot races within the city. As reported by Italy Magazine, Vadis Al Maximo, a Roman historical society, is pulling together plans to reenact a three day chariot race.

Vadis Al Maximo has prepared a visual study of the Circus Maximus, where the event will be held. The study, found on their website at vadisalmaximo.org, allows visitors to explore the layout and decoration of the area in ancient times. Illustrations place huge crowds within the amphitheater seating area, and line the center of the racetrack with statues and monuments appropriate to the times.

The modern twist? Drivers would be recruited from all over the world, giving the event international press and prestige. Scheduled to take place in the historic Circus Maximus in the fall of 2009, the race would include a full redecorating of various spots within the EternalCity to recreate the look and feel of the original races favored by ancient Greeks and Romans.

Viewing screens installed throughout the city would allow spectators to witness the action even if they were not among the lucky thousands to be included in the Circus Maximus audience.

Between necessary security, crowd control, staging, and emergency preparations, the event would require a major joint effort between the Italian government, the historical society, several business partners, and the Italian people. Tourists are likely to flood the city to witness this unique and unprecedented event.

Vadis Al Maximo seeks to capitalize on the already thriving tourist industry in Italy. By recreating an historic event for the benefit of modern viewers, the group hopes to encourage popular interest in both the past and present aspects of Rome and Roman culture. A concern in the increasing tourist trade in Greece and Spain has led the group to worries over the possible decline of Italian tourism in years to come.

The project to reinvent the Circus Maximus and offer a live chariot race is an attempt by Vadis Al Maximo to invigorate the Roman tourist’s experience and recharge the lagging appeal for modern travelers who may not be swayed by academic historical interest in Italy. For decades, the Italian state could rely upon academic and cultural scholars for much of their tourism income. As tastes change, and more travel is undertaken for pleasure, countries must find ways to maintain public interest. Vadis Al Maximo and the Roman government may have found an answer.