Chariot rally: archaeologists have discovered a racing arena from the time of ancient Spain

Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of a chariot racing arena and other previously unknown structures in the Roman city of Irunya-Veleia in northern Spain using LiDAR technology.

Researchers from ARKIKUSARKIKUS is a tech startup based in the Basque Country, Spain, specializing in the creation of virtual reconstructions of historical sites., with support from the Provincial Council of Álava and the Basque Government, discovered the Roman circus through a combination of aerial photography, laser scanning, and drone imagery (LiDAR). This comprehensive approach allowed archaeologists to map the topography and identify hidden human-made features in the landscape. LiDAR works by emitting laser pulses from the air and measuring their reflection, which creates a detailed image of the ground surface.

This aerial photograph shows the outlines of the Roman circus at the site of Irunya-Veleia, an ancient city in present-day Spain.

The new aerial map revealed several structures within an area of 251 hectares. The most impressive finding was the Roman circus — an arena measuring 280 meters in length and 72 meters in width, capable of seating 5,000 spectators. Other well-known circuses in the region are located in Tarraco (modern Tarragona) and Calagurris (modern Calahorra). Unlike these sites, the circus in Irunya-Veleia remains relatively untouched by modern construction, preserving its original layout.

Chariot racing was a popular pastime in Ancient Rome, leading to the formation of an entire industry around the sport. Enthusiasts, much like modern sports fans, supported their favorite teams and drivers, traveling from afar to cheer them on.

“Chariot Racing in the Circus,” Raffaello Sorbi, 1894.

In addition to the arena, LiDAR also revealed streets with arcades, residential areas, religious sites, and facilities for urban sanitation and water supply. Ana del Val, Deputy Director of Culture and Sports in Spain, commented:

“This discovery is extremely significant and further confirms that Irunya-Veleia was a major ancient city with immense potential for archaeological and historical research.”

Researchers hope this finding will draw the attention it deserves to Irunya-Veleia. They emphasize the need to protect, study, and assess this site, which could create wealth for the entire region.

Source: Livescience.com, Archaeologymag