Colosseum clash: Airbnb's gladiator fights ignite backlash
The company Airbnb plans to organise spectacular gladiator fights in the historic Colosseum. Tourists will have the opportunity to personally take on the role of Spartacus, the most famous warrior, and the project also aims to have educational benefits. This idea has sparked controversy among both the residents and authorities of Rome.
Gladiator fights in the Roman Colosseum were set to emerge many years before our era. The warriors were, in fact, prisoners who fought for their lives. When the fights became popular, a school for gladiators was opened, where they were taught weapon handling techniques and tactics. Over time, the battles became a tool for political support.
The most famous gladiator is said to be Spartacus. The fights on the Roman arena were only banned by Emperor Constantine the Great in the year 326. It is estimated that over 400,000 people died in its more than 300-year history. However, Airbnb has already signed an agreement with the Colosseum's management. In May, the arena will once again see a reconstruction of the fights, including educational elements. The idea is controversial because tourists will be able to personally participate as one of the warriors.
According to the "National Geographic" portal, participants will be able to learn the art of combat using instructions from experienced reenactors. The organisation also plans to provide the necessary costumes and accessories to further immerse tourists in the atmosphere of ancient Rome. The Roman Historical Group has joined the effort as well.
The whole idea aims to attract tourists wanting to feel like heroes of films or historical novels. The reconstructions are planned for next May, and the formula has already been approved by the management of the Colosseum. As reported by the "National Geographic" portal, the signed agreement between the management and Airbnb is said to be worth approximately €1.5 million.
The Airbnb idea has generated a lot of controversy, especially among Roman residents and local politicians. Critics emphasise that the Colosseum is not a place for such commercial events. The Italian politician Enzo Foschi stated that Rome is not Disneyland. He emphasised that monuments should be respected and cannot be turned into amusement parks.
Rome's councillor for culture, Massimiliano Smeriglio, also strongly opposed this initiative, describing it as a commodification of culture. He appealed to Airbnb to remove the offer from their website, stressing that the Colosseum is one of the most important monuments in the world and cannot be the site of such entertainment.
