Airbnb Launches Lottery for Gladiator-Themed Event at Rome's Colosseum

The plan to host reenactments in the historic amphitheater has drawn criticism over cultural and housing concerns.

Airbnb has announced a lottery for exclusive access to two gladiator-themed evenings at the Colosseum in May 2025, offering 36 seats to winners.
Participants will experience reenactments by hobbyist gladiators and receive lessons in ancient combat techniques during a two- to three-hour program.
The initiative coincides with Airbnb's pledge of €1.5 million for Colosseum renovations, aligning with the release of the film 'Gladiator 2.'
Critics argue the event commercializes the UNESCO World Heritage site and contributes to housing shortages linked to short-term rentals in cities like Rome.
Local activists and organizations have condemned the campaign as 'touristification,' accusing Airbnb of turning the historic site into a theme park.