Corinium Museum

22 October – 23 April 2023

Following the extraordinary discovery of eighty Roman burials outside York, this exhibition explores the remains of some of these people who may have been gladiators.

Using the latest research, this exhibition attempts to uncover more about who these people were, where they came from and how they died, questioning whether they were criminals, soldiers, slaves or gladiators. Visitors can get up close to the fascinating discoveries and assess the evidence for themselves through a range of AV material, including facial reconstructions, CT scans and interviews.

The Roman period is brought to life through unique archaeological finds, displayed alongside replica helmets and weapons. Families can explore a themed Roman marketplace, complete with associated activities and games.

The ‘Gladiators: A Cemetery of Secrets’ exhibition contains skeletal remains from the Driffield Terrace excavation in York, where the majority of the skeletons had been decapitated and suffered injuries prior to death. Archaeological opinion varies on whether the men were soldiers, criminals, slaves or gladiators. Up to six full skeletons are displayed in the exhibition alongside interpretation consisting of wall panels, object labels and AV material. The unique aspects of the skeletons, such as the presence of an animal bite on a pelvis and the leg irons found around the ankles of one individual, are analysed and wider themes including migration and burial practices are discussed.

The exhibition also includes additional content relating to Roman history, such as replica helmets and weapons, and Roman artefacts from York Archaeological Trust’s collection. Accompanying the exhibition is a themed, interactive family friendly area. This is based on the theme of a Roman marketplace, including stalls, a stage area and activities such as colouring-in and dressing-up.