After a more than 2,000-year hiatus, gladiator fights are coming back to the Roman Colosseum, albeit reenacted, as announced on Wednesday, Nov. 13. In the spring of 2025, officials will look to capitalize on enthusiasm sparked by the long-anticipated sequel to the movie “Gladiator.”
The fights will be mock versions of the historic battles, but the arrangement is still angering local housing activists who are concerned about this promotion from Airbnb. They say that the role of short-term rental companies is sparking overtourism and taking away affordable housing from locals and students.
Advocates for underserved communities called the new arrangement “a disgrace,” and argue that it will cause overtourism and displace locals throughout the city.
Meanwhile, the Roman Colosseum will host the historical reenactments through a $1.5 million deal with Airbnb with the goal of promoting “a more conscious tourism” in concert with Ridley Scott’s “Gladiators II” film, which was released on Thursday, Nov. 14, in Italy.
Eight people reportedly selected in a lottery will be able to participate in the staged gladiator fights after the site’s closing time on May 7 and May 8. Users can apply for the lottery starting on Nov. 27.
Airbnb and Colosseum officials said the sponsorship will revive an educational program inside the ancient Roman stadium, which will explore the history of the amphitheater and gladiators. Advocates for the deal argue that the experience will help finance future projects at the ancient stadium.
