Frescoes decorating an ancient tomb The origin of the gladiatorial games must likely be found in Etruria, where they formed part of the funereal ceremonies, replacing the older custom of human sacrifices. It seems they were connected to the cult of the god Saturn – an opinion confirmed by the fact that in Rome similar duels were organized during the saturnalia celebrations.
A limitation was soon established due to the growing passion for such exhibitions. It was natural to the warlike spirit of the ancient Romans to appreciate similar fights.
The first munus gladiatorium was offered by the brothers Marcus and Decimus Brutus in 264 B.C. in the forum boarium on occasion of their father’s funerary ceremony.
The first munus gladiatorium was offered by the brothers Marcus and Decimus Brutus in 264 B.C. in the forum boarium on occasion of their father’s funerary ceremony.
