Late Roman decrees uncover military system behind amphitheater animal spectacles
A study on Roman law by the Carlos III University of Madrid analyzes the regulations and complex imperial logistics governing the capture, transport and safety of animals used in spectacles in the Roman Empire—which were far more popular than gladiatorial combat.
A study by the Carlos III University of Madrid has uncovered the intricate military and administrative system that governed exotic animal spectacles, known as venationes, in Roman amphitheaters. These spectacles, far more popular than gladiatorial combat, relied on a sophisticated logistics network involving specialized military units and provincial funding.
The research, based on late Roman legal codes from the Theodosian Code, reveals that the empire imposed strict control over animal transportation and safety, with severe penalties for military commanders who failed to comply. A possible state monopoly on lions was established to ensure a steady supply for the emperor's spectacles and prevent private competition.
Despite the growing scarcity of big cats, the venationes persisted for centuries, showcasing human dominance over nature and the grandeur of imperial power.
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