The Roman Colosseum, a symbol of ancient grandeur, will host an extraordinary experience in May 2025 through Airbnb, where participants can immerse themselves in the life of a gladiator. These three-hour sessions, open to 16 guests per slot, invite participants to descend into the Colosseum’s historic hypogeum, don traditional gladiatorial armor, and train in combat under the guidance of a summa rudis referee. Guests will savor historically inspired fare and witness professional gladiators in action before stepping into the arena themselves. This initiative, supported by Airbnb’s commitment to heritage tourism, aligns with ongoing efforts to restore and enhance the Colosseum’s cultural legacy, including projects to preserve its permanent exhibition.
Simultaneously, the cinematic legacy of the Colosseum continues with Gladiator II, directed by Ridley Scott. Set years after the original, the sequel follows Lucius, played by Paul Mescal, as he seeks to restore Rome’s former glory after its descent into tyranny. Paramount Pictures, known for its global media presence, will produce the highly anticipated film, further spotlighting the Colosseum’s iconic status. Together, Airbnb’s experiential offerings and the film’s release promise to reignite global fascination with Ancient Rome, blending history, culture, and entertainment for audiences worldwide.
