Ancient Rome: Gladiatorial Helmet
At the Detroit Institute of Arts, in the Ancient Arts section, there is an artifact of Roman making. The
piece has been deemed “Gladiators Parade Helmet,” experts believe it was created in a period from the
1st century to the 3rd. The helmet was crafted out of bronze. The thickness of the bronze is believed to be
due to the fact that the helmet wasn’t actually used in battle but as a ceremonial piece. The helmet is a
significant piece in the history of Rome, the gladiatorial games where just one aspect of the many
wonderful and gruesome creations that came from ancient Rome.
Rome started around the 8th century BC, and ever since its inception to the known world Rome has not
always been the most hospitable civilization. War and suffering always followed at the footsteps of great
accomplishments. There are many splendors to Rome, aside from being the first city in the history of the
world that held claim to a million citizens it had many architecture feats. A mastery of plumbing allowed
the people of Rome to enjoy large bathhouses where they could clean themselves and enjoy times of
leisure. Running water was also a feature in homes, which meant fresh water and the use of bathrooms.
One of the most magnificent buildings constructed in Rome was the Coliseum. The Colloseum was
opened under the ruler Titus. It was built greatly in response to the unpopular rule of Nero. It was
believed by many that Nero had sent fire to a poor section of Rome, which eventually burnt down three
quarters of Rome. Nero had constructed a large golden palace to for himself over much of the area burnt
down; this depleted a lot of Rome’s wealth and did not sit well with the people. When Nero finally
committed suicide 4 different people shared the rule of Rome but did not stay in power for long. To
please the people of Rome many municipal projects were undertaken.