Airbnb has launched a special “Gladiator Experience” inside the ancient Roman monument the Colosseum, sending shockwaves of excitement and a swell of scandal. The experience will be a tribute to the release of Gladiator II: training and mock gladiatorial combat in the famous arena for 16 lucky winners. The initiative, backed by a $1.5 million pledge to support the conservation efforts of the Colosseum, was found sharply critical by local officials and culture experts.
The event will take place in May 2025 and includes gladiatorial training, a dinner with traditional food, and a reenactment wearing full armor. Airbnb said the event was designed in coordination with archaeologists to ensure historical accuracy and dignity for the monument. Director of the Colosseum Archaeological Park Alfonsina Russo said that the idea of the project is “to make the site’s cultural and historical heritage come alive through live activities.”
However, critics have said that the project sullies the Colosseum’s historical value. Rome’s councilor for culture, Massimiliano Smeriglio, termed the promotion “demeaning” and added that it made the UNESCO-listed site into some sort of amusement park attraction. Cultural experts said that this is no place for entertainment-driven reenactments, for so many people lost their lives in gruesome spectacles in this very building.
The company pointed out that the project upholds the goals of preservation and can be reached globally for participation in Roman history. The company further clarified that the events will occur outside of regular visiting hours, thus not interfering with visitation.
Among the top attractions in Rome, it grapples with overtourism and the balance of cultural heritage and tourism. The Vatican is due for a Holy Jubilee Year in 2025, and there is more pressing concern to find a balance between heritage preservation and commercial projects like this.
Free gladiator experience applications open on November 27th, and participants will make their travel arrangements as well as accommodations in Rome.
To Read More: Business