A gladiatorial combat site is an ARENA, which was a large, open-air venue used in Ancient Rome for public events such as gladiator fights, chariot races, and theatrical performances. The term 'ARENA' is derived from the Latin word for sand, which was used to cover the floor of the ARENA to absorb the blood of the combatants. Gladiatorial combat sites were typically oval or circular in shape and could accommodate thousands of spectators.