The latest archaeological discoveries show what the inhabitants of Rome ate two thousand years ago, watching the gladiator fights in the Colosseum. Bones of exotic animals were also discovered, and robots were used in archaeological research.

The BBC writes that research began in 2021, parts of the drainage system of the huge Roman arena were removed and a number of discoveries were made, from commemorative coins to jaguar bones.

What did people eat while watching spectacular and often bloody fights? Olives, fruits, nuts and hazelnuts.

• The story of an extinct plant for which the Romans were ready to pay a fortune

Research has also revealed the bones of animals that were forced to fight in the arena against humans or each other. It is about lions, jaguars and bears. Dog bones were also found.

• Romans, food and empire – from expensive wine, bread and olive oil to flamingos, rodents and garum

The Colosseum, Rome’s most famous arena, was completed in AD 80 after 10 years of work during the reign of Emperor Titus. It is estimated that it can hold between 60,000 and 65,000 spectators, and at times it can hold more than 80,000. The arena was destroyed in the 6th century, and the last major restorations were carried out in the 4th century.

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