Gladiatorial fights were an iconic part of Roman culture and lasted for nearly a thousand years. Its origin can be traced back to the munus, i.e., the practice of rich and famous personalities of sponsoring public performances during religious holidays, festivals and events. The fights often happened with different gladiator types such as the Myrmillons, the Thracians, the Secutores or the Retiarii. Each of these were characterized by their own equipment and fighting style.

Irrespective of their origin, gladiators offered spectators an example of Rome's martial ethics and, in fighting or dying well, they could inspire admiration and popular acclaim. They were celebrated in high and low art, and their value as entertainers was commemorated in precious and commonplace objects throughout the Roman world.

The origin of gladiatorial combat is open to debate. There is evidence of it in funeral rites during the Punic Wars of the 3rd century BC, and thereafter it rapidly became an essential feature of politics and social life in the Roman world. Its popularity led to its use in ever more lavish and costly games.

Contents

-Gladiators: 24 figures
-Quadrigas (four-horse chariot): 2 chariots, 4 figures, 8 horses
-Legionaries: 35 figures
-Wild beats: 4 lions, 2 bears
-Gladiators arena: MDF laser cut