Trinity College Dublin research sheds light on ‘gladiator’ burials in York

Cutting-edge technology in Trinity College Dublin has helped to shed light on a ‘gladiator’ burial mystery that has baffled archaeologists for more than a decade.

The mystery relates to a third-century Roman burial site in York in England which led to a discovery that has had experts guessing ever since its discovery in 2004. The site was unusual in that, instead of the usual mix of sex and age, the 49 skeletons found were all well-built adult males, under the age of 45. Several were found decapitated.

Their skulls were buried with the body, although not positioned consistently. Some were on the chest, some within the legs, and others at the feet.