Manises wakes up to a new weekend as an archaeological site turning into an arena for gladiator demonstrations. Lucentum Reviviscit returns with renewed energy, inviting residents and visitors to witness the international gladiators exhibition. The event brings Colosseum Heroes to life with fresh performances that begin this weekend and run through October, shining a light on ancient Rome in a modern setting.
As in past editions, the Italian influence sets the tone for the conference, centering on how gladiator demonstrations were organized, the kinds of fighters, their equipment, the rules of combat, and the training those rules demanded. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the ludus, the training regime, and the etiquette that governed gladiatorial life in the arena and beyond.
a) The program will unfold in four scenes that illustrate the journey of a gladiator: the hiring and organization of a troupe, the education and preparation of the fighters, the spectacle and entertainment value, and the gladiatorial munera itself with demonstrations of combat.
The first performances of Lucentum Reviviscit-2022 are scheduled for Saturday, May 14, with shows from 10:30 to 13:00 and 17:00 to 20:00, and Sunday, May 15, from 10:30 to 13:00. Each session has a maximum capacity of 250 attendees. Tickets are priced at three euros per session, with free admission for children up to seven years old. Tickets are available at MARQ’s box office or through instant ticketing. A modern sound system has been installed to ensure accessible viewing for visitors with mobility needs, so everyone can follow the performances clearly on site.
Historic revival days return to Lucentum
The event showcases the largest recreation ever staged on the site, featuring 43 participants from the Hispania Romana Cultural Association based in Alicante, together with 15 extras from the Gesta Gladiatoria group. This ambitious production highlights the unique opportunity to experience a Roman city as it once was, bringing to life moments when gladiator combat occurred not in grand amphitheaters, but within the Roman forum that once served as the central hub of public life. The realism of these recreations adds depth and appeal to the performances.
Local leaders emphasize the significance of these reenactments as a bridge to the ancient city of Lucentum, underscoring the value of remembering historical fights in the places where they originally unfolded two millennia ago. The project aims to offer visitors a vivid glimpse into what ancient gladiatorial life might have looked like, with careful attention to authenticity and context.
Key organizers and partners have stressed that the goal is to present living history with real people, while maintaining a respectful portrayal that avoids sensationalized violence. The MARQ Foundation’s leadership highlights the importance of collaboration with scholarly bodies and shows how historical recreation can illuminate the study of the Roman world for a broad audience.
A representative from Hispania Romana explains that the initiatives seek to promote the legacy of gladiators by teaching about recruitment, burial practices, training, and the combat itself, ensuring a comprehensive view of the gladiatorial world rather than a narrow focus on spectacle.
Activity program
In addition to the on-site performances, MARQ plans a robust cultural program that positions the site as a premier heritage destination in Alicante. The exhibition will feature a series of round tables and scientific discussions that enrich the historical narrative. A pair of conferences is planned for the first two weeks of October, with Italian and Spanish experts analyzing gladiator culture and the architectural and social significance of amphitheater structures as public spaces within ancient cities.
A broader training program will continue, running from late May through October, expanding opportunities for participants to learn about the period through guided workshops and practical demonstrations. During the weekend of the performances, guided passes and free site visits will be limited to ensure a controlled and meaningful experience. Tickets remain available at the MARQ box office, on site, and via instant ticketing.
Organizers note that the exhibition has welcomed more than 13,000 visitors since its early opening, a strong sign of public interest and engagement. The reception reflects the dedication of the MARQ team and the collaboration of eight participating museums, signaling a successful start to what organizers hope will be a lasting cultural initiative.