The Gladius, Latin for sword, was used by the Romans between the 4th Century B.C. and the 2nd Century of the current era. Its length was traditionally between 64cm and 81cm and was decorated with either the Imperial Eagle or with the images of Romulus and Remus (who were nursed by a she-wolf according the Roman legend of the foundation of Rome).

Several examples of Gladius swords were found in the town of Pompeii which was destroyed by a volcanic eruption.