Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum - Jugula

In the summer of 2017 we organized and ran two events in the Museum in support of their special exhibit, "Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum".  

​Want to learn more about the game system and see our photos from the event, then please click on Read More.

Vertical Divider

Gladiator combat has evolved into one of the defining symbols of ancient Roman culture. Immortalized by films, gladiators locked in mortal combat for the entertainment of the crowds in Rome’s Colosseum are larger-than-life figures in our mind. However, what went on behind the scenes? The exhibit, Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum, provides answers in two arenas: that of the gladiators and that of the Colosseum. The exhibit takes us through time and through the Roman Empire. Featuring original artifacts from the Colosseum never before exhibited outside of Italy, this large international exhibit illustrates the compelling and fascinating world of the gladiators.

This exhibit also explores the behind-the-scenes lives of the gladiators and the colossal stage upon which their fate was determined, the Colosseum. Theirs was a world of specialized training, discipline, regulation, and peril, but also of hope of fame, redemption and even wealth and freedom. Original armor and related archaeological artifacts from the Colosseum and other Italian museums are included.

Organized by Contemporanea Progetti, srl and Expona in collaboration with the Colosseum, Rome. Local support provided by HMW Entertainment and The Hamill Foundation.  

Jugula is an exciting miniatures game that recreates the fierce and bloody gladiator combats of Ancient Rome. Using a simple and intuitive system based on the use of Jugula cards, the players are invited to take the role of a Lanistae in charge of their familia of gladiators, confronted by a vast array of tactical decisions that will determine their victory in the arena. Jugula also offers a complete campaign system for players to manage their ludus (gladiator school) from its start in fetid underground arenas through to the glory of the Coliseum, where you will proudly see your men fight and die under the watchful eye of the Emperor! Fame and fortune awaits at the end of the road, but other Lanistae will stand in your way. In this book you will find the arena combat rules and the career campaign rules plus a poster depicting an arena over which your gladiators can fight.