Ball Games and Harpastum in Rome
Applications of Traditional Children and Adult Games in the World, NOVA Publications , ss.239-262, 2026
- Yayın Türü: Kitapta Bölüm / Araştırma Kitabı
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Yayınevi: NOVA Publications
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.239-262
- Anahtar Kelimeler: ball games, culture, harpastum, Rome
- Ondokuz Mayıs Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
This study aims to examine ball games and harpastum in Rome. The ancient Romans imitated Greek sports activities while participating in various sporting events. Wealthy Romans had the opportunity to engage in sports in extensive facilities, and the popularity of sports among the public increased even further during the reign of Emperor Nero. Although ancient Romans did not play tennis or football, they entertained themselves by playing games with balls such as pila and follis. In ancient Rome, doctors advised their patients to engage in physical activity and emphasized the importance of exercise in maintaining good health. There were three different sizes of balls in ancient Rome: Pila, Follis, and Paganica. While pila and follis may be early forms of tennis and football balls, Ancient Romans often entertained themselves by throwing or catching them at each other. Ball games were among the most popular activities among the ancient Romans and were often played in baths and gyms. Although sources on ball games are limited, there is evidence that playing ball was a daily activity among the Ancient Romans. Although Harpastum is often compared to today’s football, it has significant differences, particularly in terms of physical violence. When harpastum was played in ancient Rome, broken limbs and other serious injuries were recorded, showing that the game was extremely violent. The game was divided by a line down the middle of the field, with additional lines defining various areas within the field. The goal of both teams was the same: to deliver the ball to the goal defined by the opposing team in their field. From this perspective, harpastum was a more physically demanding and violent sport than modern football.