The Circus

The Circus was designed by the architect John Wood the Elder, leases were granted between 1755- 66. His inspiration was the Roman Colosseum, with three classical Orders, (Greek Doric, Roman/Composite and Corinthian) used, one above the other, in the elegant curved facades. The frieze of the Doric entablature is decorated with alternating triglyphs and pictorial emblems, including serpents, nautical symbols, devices representing the arts and sciences, and masonic symbols. The parapet is adorned with stone acorn finials.