Airbnb opens up Rome's Colosseum to host gladiator fights for free

[Enter Stage Rite]

The roar of the crowd, the clash of steel, and the flicker of torchlight—just another day at the Colosseum? In something that hasn’t been practiced at this spot for nearly 2,000 years, the ancient Roman arena is opening its gates for a real-life gladiator experience, brought to you by Airbnb and Paramount Pictures to mark the release of Gladiator II on November 22.

 

 

On May 7 and 8, 2025, keen and daring participants will immerse themselves in the action of Gladiator II through an exclusive, after-hours event in the historic amphitheater. This free-of-charge experience will bring history to life, offering guests the chance to don authentic gladiator armor, wander through the underground chambers, and even step into the arena itself. 

 

Those who are selected will gather at sunset and be led into the Colosseum by a master of ceremonies. The journey begins as they explore the darkened passageways of the Colosseum, retracing the steps of gladiators who once awaited their fate beneath the Roman sky. The highlight, of course, is a live gladiator duel that serves as both entertainment and a training session for what comes next—participants will be stepping into the ring themselves.

 

 

Inside the Colosseum’s famed hypogeum, guests will descend to the preparation areas, where they’ll be equipped with armor specific to their chosen fighter style, whether that’s the net-wielding retiarius or the heavily armored murmillo. Once suited up, participants will navigate torch-lit corridors and reflect on the lives of those who fought before them.

 

 

The event will feature plenty of historical flavor—including a modest spread of Roman snacks like almonds, grapes, pomegranates, and walnuts—but no luxury spread here. “You’re a gladiator, not an emperor,” Airbnb points out. “You cannot afford to be gluttonous. Overindulgence will dull your senses and slow your reflexes.”

 

 

The evening culminates with training in gladiatorial combat, with guests facing off against one another under the watchful eye of a summa rudis, the traditional gladiator referee.

 

 

The experience is designed to evoke the grit and intensity of gladiatorial life, right down to the judgment passed at the end of each fight. Bookings open on November 27 and close on December 9.

 

 

 

 

• https://variety.com/2024/film/news/gladiator-2-airbnb-colosseum-experiencebook-online-1236208248/ 
• https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/2024/11/13/airbnb-rome-colosseum-gladiator/76234716007/ 

 

 

 

Images: Airbnb