Atlas Obscura · People & society

House of the Gladiators in Cyprus

A 3rd-century house near Kourion, Cyprus, is named for its rare mosaics depicting gladiatorial combat, identified by name.

The mosaics are unusual for Cyprus, featuring mythological scenes, geometric patterns, and hunting parties, but most notably, gladiators in action.

One panel shows fighters Margarites and Hellenikos mid-duel, with their names inscribed in Greek. Another features a gladiator named Lytras advancing on a partially depicted opponent, with a referee named Darios attempting to intervene.

This site offers a rare opportunity to see named gladiators, their poses, and faces, as most arenas in Cyprus have left no other trace of such combats.

The House of the Gladiators is located near the Agora, making it easy to visit alongside the House of Achilles.

Visitors are advised to look for the referee figure, Darios, in the second panel.

It is recommended to visit outside of peak midday hours due to the lack of shade and potential for extreme heat at the Kourion site.

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