AVE! And welcome to the Ludus Gladiatorius LA (School of the Gladiator at Los Angeles), a group for men and women who want to reenact various aspects of Gladitorial combat within the Roman Empire. Whether you decide to use steel, aluminum, wooden, or needlefelt weapons, the site will allow you to share ideas and techniques aimed at developing a gladiatorial show for the public. I am the site's Lanista (gladiator trainer), M. Valerius, and will hopefully be of some service in your quest to become a Champion of the Arena...

AVE, CAESAR: MORITURI TE SALUTANT!

right: the well-known Pollice Verso ("Thumbs Down"), by Jean-Leon Gerome, 1872. A few historical errors (hoplomachus wearing a murmillo helmet, thumbs pointing the wrong way, etc.), but an enduring image that captures the excitement and passion of the Games nevertheless!