Romans up in arms about tourists playing gladiator at Colosseum

It has probably been centuries since Romans have been so feverish about happenings at the Colosseum, and it is not because of the recent release of film-maker Ridley Scott's 2024 Gladiator sequel.

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ROME –

A plan by the Colosseum and Airbnb to give a select few people the chance to unleash their "inner gladiator" at the most-visited site in Italy has caused an uproar among many Romans who say it demeans a treasured cultural icon.

Over two nights in May 2025, up to 32 people will learn the art of gladiator fighting at the ancient arena, taught by Roman history buffs who specialise in historical re-enactments.

The project is a partnership between the Colosseum Archaeological Park and accommodations booking platform Airbnb, which donated US$1.5 million (S$2 million) to spruce up a permanent exhibit inside the arena.

The aim, Airbnb said, "was to support the Colosseum's ongoing conservation work to find new ways to inspire and educate visitors on the historical significance of this bygone era".

But some Romans and cultural leaders have given the initiative an emphatic thumbs down.