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:

…is better than wrestling or running, as it exercises every part of the body, takes little time, and costs nothing.

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

Reconstruction of the game of harpastum by a modern Italian television channel

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.

Episkyros player with the ball. Source: footballbetting.org

Thus, the Roman harpastum was a variation of the ancient Greek episkyros. But we already know much more about this game.

Harpastum in the artist’s representation. In fact, playing in armor is not a good idea. Besides, usually harpastum was played with little or no clothing. Source: twitter.com

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.

Three lines were drawn on a rectangular field of play, marking the boundaries and the middle of the field. The goal of the game was to make the ball cross the boundary line in the opponent’s half of the pitch.

Women at the ball game. Source: footballbetting.org

Despite the severity of the game, it was played by both men and women, although there may have been a lighter version of the game among women.

Reeded ancient Roman balls. Source: grandvoyageitaly.com

The harpastum ball was made of reeds. Although there were also leather balls or balls made from a pig bladder.

A ball made from a pig bladder. Source: grandvoyageitaly.com

There was no time limit of any kind in the game. The game was played as long as both teams were able to keep playing. There was no break, but a player who was tired or injured could leave the game or be replaced by a new player willing to play. It was not uncommon for there to be no players left on the field by the end of the game.

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