The Colosseum has defended a controversial agreement with Airbnb that allows the ancient amphitheatre to host gladiator-themed events.
Under the deal, 16 participants will dress as gladiators and stage mock battles in the arena after sunset on two nights next May. The collaboration with Airbnb is part of a promotion for Ridley Scott’s upcoming Gladiator II film. However, the announcement has drawn sharp criticism from city officials and cultural figures.
Massimiliano Smeriglio, Rome’s culture councillor, expressed serious concerns, stating, “We cannot turn one of the world’s most iconic monuments into a theme park.” He argued the initiative contradicts efforts to make cultural heritage accessible to all, not just a select few willing to pay for exclusive experiences.
Private funding for conservation
As part of the arrangement, Airbnb will contribute $1.5 million towards upgrading the permanent exhibition at the Colosseum. While Smeriglio acknowledged the importance of private funding for conservation, he criticised the project for prioritising profit over cultural integrity.
He called on Airbnb to donate the funds without proceeding with the gladiator show, suggesting such a gesture would demonstrate respect for Rome’s unique heritage. “This move reinforces the commodification of culture,” he added, urging the platform to reconsider.
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Divided opinions
The Colosseum, managed by the Parco Archeologico del Colosseo under the Italian culture ministry, is at the centre of a heated debate. Rossella Rea, a former director of the site, condemned the initiative as “improper and in bad taste,” while noting she had always resisted similar proposals during her tenure.
On the other hand, Federico Mollicone, president of the culture commission in Italy’s chamber of deputies and a member of the right-wing Fratelli d’Italia party, supported the partnership. He defended public-private collaborations in the cultural sector, provided they are approved by the culture ministry and offer educational value. Mollicone also dismissed some of the criticism, alleging it stems from a “left-wing bias against Roman traditions.”
The Colosseum says it’s an immersive experience
Amid the growing controversy, the Colosseum Archaeological Park issued a statement clarifying its stance. It said the initiative aims to demonstrate the monument’s history through immersive experiences based on rigorous historical research.
The planned re-enactments, organised in partnership with historical associations Ars Dimicandi and Gruppo Storico Romano, aim to challenge stereotypes about gladiators. The park assured critics the events would occur outside public visiting hours and would not disrupt regular access to the site.
