Soccer is perceived by many as a modern invention, but in fact various ball games have been known since ancient times. Not surprisingly, the Romans al

Harpastum — ancient Roman prototype of soccer and rugby

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2024-02-12 02:30:04

Soccer is perceived by many as a modern invention, but in fact various ball games have been known since ancient times. Not surprisingly, the Romans also had a ball game.

This game was called harpastum and was very beloved by the Romans. It was usually played in the baths to warm up properly before the water procedures. The ancient Greek writer Atheneus and one of the early Christian bishops Sidonius Apollinaris spoke highly of the game, and the famous Roman physician Galen believed that harpastum:

Unfortunately, we know very little about how this ancient Roman game was played. Apparently, it was a cross between soccer and rugby.

Many ancient Greek writers note that Roman harpastum was borrowed from the Greeks, who also had a ball game called episkyros (ἐπίσκυρος — literally “common ball”). It is interesting that even FIFA recognizes this game as an early form of soccer, and an ancient Greek bas-relief depicting an athlete with a ball on his knee is engraved among other images on the UEFA Champions League Cup.

The game was played between two teams of 12 to 14 people each. Players were allowed to use both feet and hands. It was a very tough game. Wrestling techniques such as grabs and throws were allowed against opposing players. Fractures, sprains, and strains were common during matches.