article_snippet: Filmmakers already on location in Rome and the southern city of Matera reportedly made a request to use the ancient stadium immortalised by the film in December.
article_snippet: The classic chariot race scene - in which Ben Hur played by Charlton Heston competes against Charlton Heston nemesis
article_snippet: Massala - will now be filmed in a purpose-built reproduction arena in Rome’s Cinecittà studios.
article_snippet: The original 1959 Ben Hur film saw Charlton Heston filmed at the famed Circus Maximus in the movie's epic chariot race finale (pictured) a purpose-built reproduction arena in Rome’s Cinecittà studios has been used for pop concerts in the past with Genesis and Lady Gaga playing there in recent years.
highlights_snippet: Film producers hoped to film chariot race scene at the ancient site as per original film .
  
highlights_snippet: the ancient site as per original film was used by ancient Romans to host spectacular chariot races .