In late September, Lyon becomes Lugdunum once again, inviting you to step back into the age of gladiators, as the Lyon Hippodrome is transformed into a Roman Colosseum. What’s on the program? A life-size experience with friends or family, featuring breathtaking battles to witness from the stands, as well as an immersive tour of the Roman encampment before the show… Thrills guaranteed!
ROME: Forbidden Battles, from the Arena to the Final Showdown
ROME: Forbidden Battles catapults you back over 2,000 years with a show unlike any other. Because here, forget about mere theatrical fantasy—this is truly an immersion in a historical reenactment inspired by the Roman world. Expect to be startled, but above all, to be thrilled and… to laugh!
While ROME: Forbidden Battles remains an experience worthy of gladiatorial combat, it’s nonetheless an event for the whole family that blends spectacle, comedy, acrobatics, and other surprises. The show features interaction between the characters and the audience, and the audience will, of course, have a role to play in determining the fighters’ ultimate fate… The show lasts about 60 minutes, but that doesn’t include the Roman encampment, which opens 1 hour and 30 minutes before the show so visitors can fully immerse themselves in history.
After Spain, the experience is coming to the Capital of Gaul
It was in Madrid and Granada that the gladiators first planted their swords in the sand of the arena, and given the audience’s enthusiasm, they have no intention of stopping there. In the Spanish capital, four recent performances at the legendary Zarzuela Hippodrome delighted audiences.
Amy⭐⭐⭐⭐ “An exceptional show that captures your attention from the very first minute. We loved every minute of it.”
Carmen ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Amazing stunt performers and actors.”
Augusto ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A pleasant atmosphere. An entertaining show for young and old alike. Before the show, you can enjoy a few activities in the Roman encampment as well as a presentation on the lives of gladiators.”
And you might as well strike while the iron is hot! It was only natural that Lyon was chosen in France for its ancient heritage and its hippodrome, which fits the experience perfectly. The fate of the gladiators will therefore be in the hands of the people of Lugdunum on September 25 and 26…
Practical Information:
- 📅 Dates: Friday, September 25, and Saturday, September 26
- ⏰ Showtimes: two sessions at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.
- ⏳ Duration: approximately 60-minute show, with the Roman camp opening 90 minutes before the show.
- 📍 Location: Lyon Hippodrome – Carré de Soie
- 👪 Age requirement: open to all
