In 2004-5, eighty burials, dating from the early 2nd century to the late 3rd century AD, were unearthed in York. This site was part of a large cemetery on the outskirts of the Roman town of Eboracum, across the river from the legionary fortress. The discoveries displayed evidence that so intrigued the archaeologists that further investigation was needed. This search for answers, which is ongoing, has suggested that these people could have been a group of gladiators, who lived and fought in York during the Roman occupation.

Gladiators: A Cemetery of Secrets is an exhibition that explores the story of these men, using the latest research to try and uncover who they were, where they came from, how they died and why. It features the skeletal remains of some of the men, who were decapitated and suffered injuries prior to death.

Included in Admission