House of the Gladiators, Ancient Roman training complex in Pompeii, Italy
The House of the Gladiators is an ancient Roman complex in Pompeii featuring a central courtyard surrounded by 24 columns. The structure included two entrance ramps, living quarters on the southern side, and walls decorated with hunting and mythological scenes, plus a stable area added later.
The complex was built in the middle of the first century BC and initially served as a training facility for gladiators. After the earthquake of 62 AD, the building was converted into private living spaces and abandoned its original purpose.
The inscriptions scattered throughout mention gladiatorial contests and reveal how these fighters held a distinct place in Roman society. The mythological scenes painted on the walls connected the harsh world of combat training with the refined realm of classical imagery.
The site is accessible through two separate entrances, making it easier to move through the various sections. Visitors should take time to examine the wall decorations and inscriptions closely, as these reveal important details about Roman daily life.
The walls between the columns display detailed scenes from mythology, including Europa and the bull. This artistic connection between a training facility and classical myths is a rare combination that visitors often overlook.
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