Dies in Arena

Dies in Arena: Gladiatorial combat returns to Lucera

On June 6th and 7th, 2026, the Roman Augustan Amphitheatre of Lucera, in the province of Foggia, becomes the stage for the inaugural edition of Dies in Arena, a historical re-enactment project dedicated to the gladiatorial games of ancient Rome. Promoted by the Colosseum Archaeological Park, the event restores gladiatorial combat to its authentic dimension, stripping away cinematic stereotypes through rigorous philological reconstruction.

A scientific model under the aegis of the Colosseum

Dies in Arena stems from a scientific protocol signed between the Colosseum Archaeological Park, the Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape for the provinces of Barletta-Andria-Trani and Foggia, and the producing associations. The goal is to define a model of philological reconstruction that can be replicated in the most prestigious amphitheatres of the Mediterranean as a tool for education and cultural transmission. For the first time, the Augustan Amphitheatre of Lucera and the Flavian Amphitheatre of Rome are ideally linked in a single major project.

The spectacle: "The People, Justice, and the Gladiators"

The heart of the event is the three-act performance titled "The People, Justice, and the Gladiators". The spectator is not merely an observer: they become part of the People of Rome and, by right, have a voice in the fate of the gladiators. Alongside the arena combat, gladiators, praetorians, and citizens parade in a narrative that weaves historical accuracy with deep emotional engagement.

Educational activities for families

Throughout the two days, free educational activities designed for families and children are available: visits to the military camp, demonstrations of Roman coin minting, and ancient writing workshops. It is a unique opportunity to experience the daily life of ancient Rome before the evening shows in the arena.

Lucera, a city of art in the Capitanata region

The event highlights one of the most important monuments in northern Puglia: the Augustan Amphitheatre, one of the oldest and largest in southern Italy. Lucera, in the heart of the Foggia Capitanata, also preserves the Swabian-Angevin Fortress and a charming historic center, which provide the backdrop for an event that successfully blends culture, entertainment, and tourism within the territory of the Municipality of Lucera and the Province of Foggia.