Italy’s ancient gladiator training centre collapses

LONDON - An ancient building, which was used by Roman gladiators as their training centre, has collapsed, officials said.

The building in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii collapsed Saturday morning, Sky News reported quoting the office of Pompeii’s archaeological superintendent. The site was closed to the public at the time and no one was hurt.

Pompeii and thousands of its inhabitants were buried under volcanic ash in 79 A.D. when Mount Vesuvius erupted in the southern Italian town. Since then, the site has been a major tourist attraction.

The 40 square metre space was used by gladiators for training and practicing before going to fight in a nearby amphitheatre.

Known by its Latin name Schola Armaturarum Juventus Pompeiani, the structure was not open to visitors but was visible from outside as tourists walked along one of the ancient city’s main streets.

The cause of collapse was not known though reports suggested water infiltration following heavy rains might be responsible.