Female gladiators and the cult of the gladiatrix
Did Rome's fighting females really exist?
LIFESTYLE History
Much debate surrounds whether or not female gladiators existed. Tantalizing evidence suggests that the gladiatrix—the female equivalent of the gladiator of ancient Rome—did indeed take up the sword and enter the arena. But did gladiatrices actually engage in mortal combat, or were they simply a novelty act arranged as entertainment for the emperor?
Step back in time and find out if these fighting females really did battle it out in the amphitheaters of old. Click on for more.