Ancient Rome is a city of abundance and poverty, free entertainment and legal bloodshed. “Bread and circuses” - the winged words of the satirist Juvenal reflect the essence of the policy of Roman statesmen, who sought to keep citizens in obedience through bribery and free performances. It was here that the gladiatorial movement originated, chariot races, amusing naval battles (naumachia), and triumphal processions in honor of victory over the enemy were held. The book examines in detail the various types of gladiators and their weapons, the specifics of training in gladiatorial schools, the preparation of battles, and describes the architectural features of amphitheaters . In addition, it tells in a fascinating way about Roman civilization: what connected clients and patrons, how one could get a profitable position in the Senate, who were the lanists, provocateurs, noxies, etc.