The Nika Riots
How a chariot race sparked off the bloodiest riots in history
The Nika Riots took place over a week in 532 AD. More than 30,000 citizens lost their lives and half the city was burnt to the ground during the riots. And it all started over a chariot race. At the time known as a very good form of entertainment that started in the Roman Empire.
Chariot Racing in the Byzantine Empire
Chariot racing was a popular diversion for Roman and Byzantine citizens. Drivers belonged to factions that were color-coded for ease of recognition. Teammates could collaborate in races and skilled drivers were bought and sold to different teams, much like professional athletes today.
Supporters would wear the color of their faction to show their loyalty. Drivers might change faction but fans did not. Rivalries were fierce and violence frequently erupted between different factions, particularly after races. Football hooliganism is probably the best modern comparison though violence was not solely limited to the Hippodrome (chariot stadium). Factions would also take political stances which could manifest itself as chanted demands at the races or street violence.
Traditionally there were four main factions (Red, White, Green, Blue) but by the time of the 6th century, the Blues…
