The Colosseum, a universal symbol of Roman history and culture, is about to become the stage for a one-of-a-kind experience. Thanks to an Airbnb initiative, a select few will have the opportunity to step into the shoes of real gladiators, experiencing for one night the thrill of one of the world’s most iconic monuments.
A €1.5 Million agreement for the Colosseum
Airbnb, the renowned short-term rental platform, has signed a €1.5 million agreement with the Colosseum Archaeological Park. The goal? To fund the “Il Colosseo si racconta” program, to renew the permanent exhibition, and preserve the Eternal City’s most iconic monument.
However, this collaboration has sparked considerable controversy in the context of overtourism that overwhelms the capital, with long-term rentals increasingly hard to find due to the spread of short-term rentals. Many are questioning whether it is appropriate to associate such a historically and culturally significant symbol with a global commercial platform.
A unique gladiator experience
The initiative, scheduled for May 7 and 8, 2025, offers 16 lucky participants (8 couples) the chance to enjoy an extraordinary experience inside the Colosseum. Guests, selected through a free competition on Airbnb, will have the opportunity to wear armor and step into the ancient arena, just like gladiators did two thousand years ago.
The event includes demonstrations of Roman combat techniques with expert reenactors and an exclusive tour of the Colosseum’s underground chambers, where gladiators once awaited their turn to enter the arena. At the end of the evening, participants will be treated to a Roman-style banquet featuring dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of the era, including nuts, almonds, pomegranates, eggs, and grapes.
Entry will be permitted after sunset, ensuring that the event does not interfere with regular tourist visits. Participation is free, but spots are limited! Registration will be open on the Airbnb platform from 3:00 PM on November 27 until 8:59 AM on December 10, 2024.
Disneyland or cultural heritage? Criticism abounds
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding this proposal, criticism has not been scarce. Many political figures and local associations have expressed strong reservations.
“We are not Disneyland; we are Rome,” said Enzo Foschi, secretary of the Roman PD, accusing Airbnb of trivializing a cultural symbol of global significance. Critics also highlight the negative impact of short-term rentals, which are considered one of the main causes of urban desertification and the housing crisis affecting long-term rentals.
Conversely, supporters of the project emphasize that the event has been developed with historical and scientific rigor, thanks to the contribution of historians, archaeologists, and researchers.
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