Vivid gladiator fresco discovered at PompeiiThe fresco was uncovered in what experts think was a tavern frequented by gladiatorsROME - A vivid fresco depicting an armour-clad gladiator standing victorious as his wounded opponent stumbles gushing blood has been discovered in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, Italy's culture ministry said Friday. The striking scene in gold, blue and red was uncovered in what experts think was a tavern frequented by gladiators, who fought each other, prisoners and wild animals for the public's entertainment. On the ground next to him lies the shield of the defeated "Thraex", who has suffered deep wounds and is on the point of collapse. It was most likely a tavern with an upper floor of rooms used either by the innkeeper or by prostitutes, the ministry said. Culture Minister Dario Franceschini said the find showed Pompeii was "an inexhaustible mine of research and knowledge for the archaeologists of today and the future".

Source: Bangkok Post October 11, 2019 15:47 UTC