Who Were Roman Gladiators?

A gladiator "swordsman", was an armed combatant who entertained audiences in the Roman Empire in violent combats with other gladiators, wild animals, and condemned criminals. Gladiators were divided into types based on their weapons.

Murmillo gladiators used army weapons and military armour. The shield was one metre long and 65 cm wide. The sword was used for for stabbing, not cutting

Thracian gladiators used lightweight armour. The shield was small and square and the leg armour had long metal guard. The sword had a curved blade.

Povocator gladiators wore the heaviest armour of all gladiators. They had a breastplate that protected the chest, a round helmet and leg armour that reached abve the knees. The shield was about 80cm long and 60cm wide.

Retiarus gladiators had a fishing net and trident, a spear with three points. They wore very little armour. They relied on speed and skills in combat. The fishing net was used to try to entangle an opponent.

Gladiators Helmets were decorated with colorful plumes and crests and made them look taller and bigger. The helmets were very heavy, they weighed about 7kgs.

Gladiator shields were painted and decorated with gold to impress the audience.

From the book: Over 1000 Fantastic Facts.