No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Colosseum, the incredible structure built in the 1st century AD as a venue for gladiator fights, public executions of condemned prisoners, and gory spectacles involving wild animals. The last gladiatorial combat occurred at the Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, in the early 5th century. The colossal venue was repurposed several times and eventually fell into ruin over the following centuries until serious restoration began in the 19th century. Today, it is among the most-visited attractions in Rome, with an estimated seven million annual visitors passing through its many doors.
Next year, however, gladiators are returning to the arena—sort of, and not without controversy. The Colosseum Archaeological Park has teamed up with Airbnb to offer a three-hour experience dubbed “Train for Gladiator II glory,” coinciding with the release of the sequel to the much-acclaimed 2000 film. Anyone interested can submit a booking request between late November and early December. The two “training” sessions, each accommodating 16 people, are set to take place on May 7 and May 8, 2025. Although the experience is free, participants will need to cover all other expenses, including their stay in Rome.
The Airbnb experience will take place in the evening, outside the monument’s usual hours. It will involve participants donning gladiator armor in the Colosseum’s underground chambers before watching a performance of “seasoned gladiators” (minus the killing and maiming, presumably). They will then enjoy a modest spread of "victuals like grapes, pomegranates, almonds, and walnuts.” Lastly, participants will “train in the art of gladiator combat” and “face off against your fellow warriors” - though no further details have been given on what this will entail.
We who are about to die ... booked online:
- According to Airbnb, the gladiator training has been designed “sensitively” with input from archaeologists and historical reenactment groups. As part of the agreement, Airbnb is providing $1.5 million to help the Colosseum update its exhibits, as well as for restoration and conservation projects.
- Although the project is supported by Italy’s national government, not everyone is thrilled about the plan, including members of Rome’s city government. Many objected to the historic monument being treated like a theme park, with little historical and cultural context. Historians have also voiced concern that allowing people to dress up and pretend to be gladiators trivializes the terrible experiences of gladiators and those condemned to fight and die in the Colosseum – many of whom were slaves.
- Airbnb has already come under fire in Rome and many other European cities for their role in turning much-needed urban housing into lucrative short-term holiday accommodation, essentially forcing locals out of city centers and creating a serious housing shortage in some areas.
