The Roman circus of Vienne was an ancient structure built in the early 4th century during the late Tetrarchic period. Since 1852 it has been classified as a Historic Monument of France.The circus was most likely built around the beginning of the 4th century, on a pre-existing 1st century structure.
The obelisk, which stands today at the Place de la Pyramide de Vienne, was located in the centre of the ancient "spina" of the Roman circus.
This structure was built at this time because the city was second only to Augusta Treverorum at the time of Diocletian’s Tetrarchy. It is no coincidence that numerous Roman Emperors stayed here, such as Constantine I (between 307 and 312), Flavius Claudius Julianus (in 360/361) and Valentinian II in 392.
