While it was once the stage for epic battles as Gladiators fought it out, the Colosseum will return to its original purpose for the first time in nearly 2,000 years courtesy of AirBnB.
The company is inviting ‘daring warriors’ to step foot inside the historic arena and suit up in armor and put their skills to the test as part of AirBnB Experiences.
The AirBnB Gladiator experience will take place between May 7 and May 8, 2025. However, there are only two slots of three-hour experiences available, with each having capacity for up to 16 guests.
This comes as Gladiator II, the second in the iconic movie franchise, hits the big screen in theaters worldwide this Winter.
What is AirBnB’s Gladiator experience at the Colosseum?
Guests will meet the patron at the historical landmark after sunset, where they’ll then be led inside.
They will have access to the underground chambers where gladiators prepared for battle and hunted animals. Known as the hypogeum, this is a complex series of tunnels and chambers which sit beneath the floor of the arena.
The attendees will be able to don historically accurate armor that reflects their gladiator type – whether that be murmillo, thraex, provocator, retiarius, or contrarete.
It will then be time to explore the bowels of the Colosseum and trace historic steps. Ahead of the true test, there will be a spread of grapes, pomegranates, almonds, and walnuts.
“You’re a gladiator, not an emperor. You cannot afford to be gluttonous. Overindulgence will dull your senses and slow your reflexes,” AirBnB explains in a press release.
The face off against fellow warriors will then begin, with the company writing: “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. May you taste the sweetness of glory with infestus pollex and join the ranks of victorious gladiators since time immemorial.”
How to book the AirBnB Gladiator experience at the Colosseum
Those who are eager to apply have until December 9 at 11:59 PM PT to get their applications in. The form opened on November 27 and it’s almost certain a huge number of people will take their chances.
The applications are open on the AirBnB Experience, titled ‘Train for Gladiator II glory.’ To be in with a chance, click ‘Request’.
The selected winners of the experience must pay for their own travel to and from Rome, Italy though.
Image Credit: AirBnB Newsroom