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Archaeological site · Tarragona, Catalonia
Pretorio and Roman Circus
Roman tower at the top of the city, connected to the vaulted galleries of the 1st-century circus where chariot races ran. From the tower terrace you can see the Part Alta, the port and the sea.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pretorio and Roman Circus
The Tarraco circus was built at the end of the 1st century, inside the city, between the provincial forum area and the lower part. It was about 325 meters long and hosted races of two-horse and four-horse chariots. Much of it ended up beneath the houses and streets that developed later, and what is visited today are the vaulted galleries that supported the seating and the end section.
The Pretorium tower served as a link between levels of the Roman city, providing access from the provincial forum to the circus. In the Middle Ages it became a residence of the kings of Aragon in Tarragona, hence the popular name Castell del Rei, and later it was used as a prison.
The route descends through the circus galleries and rises to the tower terrace, with views of the cathedral, the Part Alta, the port and the sea. A model of the city in the 2nd century, in the Volta del Pallol, helps to understand the layout of the buildings.
The site belongs to the Museu d'Història de Tarragona and is included in the combined ticket for the Roman monuments. Opening hours vary by season.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning, to combine with the amphitheater below. The tower terrace has good light in the late afternoon. Check opening hours before you go.
How to get there
On Plaça del Rei, in the Part Alta, a few minutes on foot from the amphitheater and Rambla Nova.
Tip
Also stop by the Volta del Pallol, where the Tarraco model is located, before or after the visit.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pretorio and Roman Circus
What can you see at the Roman circus of Tarragona?
The vaulted galleries that supported the stands and part of the circus’s end area from the 1st century, where the chariot races took place.
Can you climb the Pretori tower?
Yes. The visit includes the tower terrace, with views over the Part Alta, the harbor and the sea.
Why is the tower called Castell del Rei?
Because in the Middle Ages it served as a residence for the kings of Aragon when they were in Tarragona.