Roman Gladiator School: Master Hand-to-Hand Combat on the Ancient Appian Way

Acquire the fundamentals of close combat at an authentic gladiator academy located on the historic Appian Way. Uncover the mysteries of the gladiatorial games of Imperial Rome, interact directly with the history of ancient Rome, and experience unimaginable enjoyment!

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Via Appia Antica, 18 - Parents and/or companions do not have to pay the ticket if they do not attend the course

Your gladiator lesson takes place at the Gladiator School of Rome, located near the Colosseum on the historic Appian Way. Specializing in the reenactment of ancient Roman life and gladiator fighting, your instructors are members of the Historic Group of Rome and will begin your class by providing you with your costume — a traditional belt, tunic, leather gloves, and a training sword known as a rudis. Learn the basic skills of gladiator sword fighting before summoning your imagination and channeling your inner ancient Roman as you fight off ferocious lions and battle other sword-wielding gladiators. If you wish, you can participate in an optional gladiator tournament, complete with a prize for the victor. Either way, all participants receive a certificate of accomplishment at the end of your lesson. Friends and family are allowed to watch your class from the viewing platform. Admission to the Gladiator School of Rome Museum is also included so you can check out gladiator weapons and other artifacts.

What's Included
  • Gladiator attire and weaponry included for your lesson!
  • 2-hour immersive Gladiator class
  • Complimentary drink
  • Training by the Historic Group of Rome’s experts
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop off
  • Food and beverages, unless specified
Additional Information
  • Minimum age is 6 years
Location
Via Appia Antica, 18
Via Appia Antica
Departure Point: Lessons commence at the Gladiator School of Rome, located approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) from The Colosseum Address: Via Appia Antica, 18, 00179, Rome, Italy Directions: Either take Metro (line B) and get off at OSTIENSE and take the bus number 118 OR take Metro (line A), get off at stop SAN GIOVANNI and then take bus number 218. However in the spirit of easy access - we suggest taking a taxi (approx. 10-15 euros) to access the school Dates: Daily Opening hours 9:30am - 1:30pm 2:00pm - 6:00pm Return point: Concludes at the Gladiator School of Rome
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.7
(1328 Ratings)
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Ruth_j
Sep 28, 2024
Fun afternoon! - Brilliant, especially for those energetic and willing to participate. The trainer/guide was excellent and we learned heaps. Do bring mosquito spray though as those bitters are lethal!
Review provided by Viator
Sharonda_b
Sep 22, 2024
Fun for adults too - My son said it was the best part of his trip! Fun for adults and kids 7 and over. The pictures are priceless !
Review provided by Viator
N7720cakatherinem
Sep 16, 2024
Must do - This was so much fun!! My boys 6 and 9 and my husband 40 had the absolute best time participating and i had just as much fun watching! If you are even thinking of booking this activity you need to do it!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Fabrizio_c
Sep 14, 2024
Fantastica - The explanation about Roman legionaries and gladiators was very interesting and practical. The set up was very well done with equipment, helmets, weapons and Roman clothes. The practical lesson for gladiators was beautiful and then the battle in the arena with shield and sword (wood and protected). The boys were passionate and competent. Highly recommended.
Review provided by Viator
Sue_d
Sep 11, 2024
Gladiator Skills to last a lifetime! - This was such a great experience for all of us. My son, who turned 11 on the day of his class, had a unique and remarkable birthday. His teacher here was excellent, so knowledgeable, skilled, patient and genuinely so kind and welcoming. There was place for us to sit, watch and take photos throughout. We learned a lot, and our participant got a very gladiatorial workout but loved every minute of it. Would highly recommend this to anyone who is seeking adventure, history and action!
Review provided by Viator
Alma
Sep 10, 2024
Wonderful experience for families - We arrived earlier because there was a transport strike we booked a taxi that took us directly (I recommend if or if a taxi) and we were treated without having to wait at the contracted time. Very correct and pleasant explanations. Being the only ones they allowed me to participate in the activity of the children, who had a great time and had our Gladiator to ourselves. My children want to go back to Rome just for the combat. It is an activity aimed at children. They gave us water and there was mosquito repellent. I recommend that you bring a bracelet or mosquito spray even if you have there. Highly recommended for children and families.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Shannon_j
Sep 8, 2024
Best, Most Fun Rome Experience - 9am, Sept 6, 2024: Gannicus (Gladiator Name?) was my instructor. He was a true Doctore/Professore and my experience was awesome! 2 solid hours of historical briefing, warm-up training, basic gladius strikes and blocks, sparring with/without shields of small/large size, and archery, javelin and spears! I even received a gladiator name: Maximus!! In short, lots attention to detail, but so much fun! My favorite experience in all of Rome! Gracie mille, Doctore!!! From Maximus and Nemesis
Review provided by Viator
Courtney_m
Sep 7, 2024
A fun morning - This was a great activity. It was a nice blend of learning about the gladiators in the museum and a little physical activity. We thought as a family that 2 hours was the perfect length.
Review provided by Viator
Brue9839
Sep 1, 2024
Fun for kids and adults! - This was a blast! Our littles had a super fun time. It was very hands on and our guide and gladiator trainer was amazing. Very friendly and great with our kids. Bring bug spray though, we got eaten alive.
Review provided by Viator
Jessica_m
Sep 24, 2024
Fabulous experience for the kids! - The kids had great fun learning how to fight like a gladiator. Gungus the instructor was awesome and made the experience very memorable! There were quite a few mosquitoes so I’d recommend wearing bug spray. Overall a great experience :)
Review provided by Viator
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