The city of Rome stood at the heart of the Roman Empire.For More than 55 years it was the most powerful city in the western world.
Rome was in may way like a modern city . it had paved roads underground sewers , and even multistory apartment blocks,. food was imported from across the empire to feed the populace , and aqueducts brought in fresh water from the surrounding countryside. The rilers of Rome .emperors and powerful politicians,filled the streets with great monuments to domenstreted their power.the heart of the city was the forum ,an open space for publics meeting and xelebrations .Around it were built great arenas,temples,bath houses,theaters,markets and places,many of which are still standing thousands of year later.As the Empire grew,the city of Rome became richer and its population swelled.it is though the 1,200,000 people lived there at the empires height around 100CE,as many as in modern -day prague.
Professional fighters
The were more than 20types of gladiator,each with different weapons and armour.The Romans enjoyed watching gladiators of different kinds fighting each other,to see which stules and equipment were most effective.Gladiators were slaves , but if they fought well enough they could somtimes win their freedome.the most successful celebrities to their adoring fans.
Gladiator helmet
This bronze helmet was used by a murmillo,a heavily armed gladiator who carried a short sword and a large,recangular shield into battle.
Social sitting
The sitting levels in the colosseum mirrored the social classes in Roman life.The fornt rows were reserved for richer nad more importent people, while the less fortuante sat further
back.The emperor had a private box reserved for him and his guests.Slaves attended the circus only to serve their masters.Underground lift
Wild beasts such as lions ,wolves, and even elephants fought against each other and against trained hunters.The animals were kept in cages underground.They were brought up to the surface in lifts and released into the arena through tradoors.
Arena floor
The arena floor was made from wooden boards covered in sand.
Gladiators
Once the beast fights were finished,the gladiators entered the arena. This was the most popular part of the show .They would fight in pairs around the ring.although most gladiators were slaves ,they could win their freedom if they fought well in the arena..
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