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Rome
annexed the Nabatean Kingdom, and its principal city, Petra, in 106 AD. Due to
the wealth gained in controlling the caravan route, Rome, under Hadrian
(117-138), enlarged the city of Gerasa (Jerash), in Jordan. One of his projects
was the restoration/expansion of the hippodrome adjacent to the South Gate of
the city. It had a seating capacity for about 15,000 spectators.
The
hippodrome in Jerash, at 800 X 170 feet, is one of the smaller hippodromes to
be unearthed. The word “hippodrome” comes from the Greek hippos, which means “horse,”
and dromos, which refers to a racecourse or track. Chariot races were the main
attraction at most hippodromes, although other equestrian and gladiatorial events
also took place in them.
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