Airbnb Invites You To Become A Gladiator In Rome’s Colosseum in 2025

The iconic Colosseum in Rome is one of Italy’s capital’s top attractions and it could now become even more so as Airbnb invites a few lucky applicants to become gladiators, participating in gladiatorial fights in 2025. However, as this will no doubt excite daredevils, CNN quotes some as being against Airbnb’s plans, while stating that Rome isn’t “Disneyland”. Are Airbnb’s plans a worthy option or is it taking away from the historic building’s importance?

Gladiators return to fight in Rome’s Colosseum

Airbnb has made a $1.5 million donation to the iconic and historic Colosseum in Rome. While that may sound generous, the donation was made to see the return of gladiators to the building. Moreover, gladiatorial plans are part of Airbnb’s tie-up with the Gladiator II movie. A portion of the donation will work towards the cost of renovations of the historic structure and the permanent exhibition inside the Colosseum.

While some believe the plans are an excellent way to educate those lucky enough to get tickets to the gladiatorial fights, others believe treating the monument this way is almost sacrilege to one of the finest pieces of preserved Roman architecture.

About the famous Roman amphitheater

The historic Colosseum in Rome was the stage for epic battles for centuries, seeing some of the legendary gladiators fighting to huge audiences. However, for the first time in almost 2,000 years, the Colosseum will return to one of its most important entertainment, inviting daredevils to step into the building to become gladiators in the historic arena.

Airbnb guests can ask to book one of two, three-hour gladiatorial fights on May 7 and 8, 2025, at no cost. Meanwhile, each experience can accept 16 guests (eight gladiators and their plus ones.

Moreover, the following are the words of virtual gladiator Lucius Verus, the lead character of Gladiator II, who asks potential participants:

Think you have what it takes to become the supreme gladiator?

This trial will separate the weak from the strong, where only those with true strength and honor will rise above. For the courageous who accept the challenge, I open the gates of the Colosseum for you to prove your worth before the highest of Rome. Suit up and get ready for battle, for what we do in life echoes in eternity.

Descend into the hypogeum, the underground chambers where gladiators prepare for battle. There, you will don armor that most closely reflects your gladiator type, whether that be murmillo, thraex, provocator, retiarius, or contrarete. Choose wisely.

Train in the art of gladiator combat and test your mettle as you face off against your fellow warriors. A summa rudis – your referee– will ultimately determine your fate.

How to enter to become a Gladiator

Airbnb’s competition is free to enter and will be available from 6 am on November 27 through December 9 at 11:59 pm, but winners will have to cover the cost of getting to and from Rome. Readers can find out more about the Colosseum adventure on Airbnb’s website here.