Roman festival brings gladiator battles to western Bosnia

Residents of the small village of Mokro in Bosnia and Herzegovina transformed their community into ancient Rome on Saturday (August 1) for the country's Roman Days festival.

The Roman history re-enactment festival featured gladiator battles, Roman soldiers, cavalry, ancient crafts and period costumes, as organizers sought to boost tourism by bringing the region's archaeological heritage to life.

Children and adults dressed in Roman costumes and participated in various activities, including traditional perfume making and statue creation using ancient methods.

"I am truly both proud and honoured to have the opportunity to participate in the Roman Days, and in a way, revive the memories of the Rome that once existed here," a participant, Josip Ivesic, said while creating a sculpture.

The festival included an improvised colosseum where men dressed as Roman soldiers and performed historical reenactments of gladiator battles.

Camera: Amel Emric, production and editing: Branko Filipovic, writing: Anna Lubowicka/Reuters