Sports and Games in Ancient Rome

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    Believe it or not, the Romans had many interesting sports and games. They were the ones who started the games we know and love today. They played games way ahead of their time.

Campus

        The Campus in ancient Rome was an area where men, children and women went to relax.  It had been used in the past as a drill ground for soldiers. It was a large section of plain near the Tiber River. Over time it became a field and track playground. The Campus was also ancient Rome's field, track playground and people would go there to play and exercise.

        There was a big lake near it so many people swam there. •There was also a bathhouse where people took  long and refreshing baths. The  men were separate from the women.

Ball Games

    The Romans had their own type of ball game called the "Roman Ball." Ancient Romans loved to play this ball games. Ball games were the most favorite non-violent sport. It was also the most popular among the Romans. Romans often spent their morning exercises playing games on the field. Boys and even men played in teams. The object was to throw the ball into the middle of the circle and at someone else. If they miss, then the thrower would get a point. No one really knows how it started or what the real name is. 

Board Games

    Romans believe it or not, also played board games like us. They played games we also played today. Some of these games were Roman checkers, chess, backgammon, and tic-tac-toe. The Roman played the game of twelve lines and the game of lucky sixes. They also played games such as the Greek and Egyptian games.

Gladiators

 Gladiators were people who played a violent sport in the arena. Gladiators either slay animals such as lions, tigers etc or other gladiators. They were condemned criminals, prisoners of war, or slaves brought for the purpose of gladiatorial combat by a lanista (owner or gladiators). Professional gladiators were free men who volunteered to participate in the games.

Chariot Racing

    Chariot Racing was a very popular sport in Ancient Rome. A famous arena to hold the chariot racing is the Circus Maximus. Chariot Racings are cheered on with people from all of the different ranges. The ranges were like from slaves to rich people. 

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