In a confrontation that transcends the simple realm of tourism, the eternal city faces the eruption of commercial experiences offered by Airbnb. On the occasion of the long-awaited release of the film Gladiator II, the platform unveiled a bold initiative: to offer a few tourists the chance to become gladiators for a day in the mythical Colosseum. However, this proposal has not gone unnoticed and provokes palpable indignation among the authorities and residents of Rome, who are outraged by this transformation of historical heritage into a mere consumable product. “ The Colosseum is not a theme park,” they affirm in a collective statement aimed at protecting the integrity of this emblematic symbol of their cultural heritage.
“The Colosseum is not a product to buy”: Rome harshly criticizes Airbnb for its “gladiator for a day” offer
As the long-anticipated event offered by Airbnb approaches, a wave of criticism rises against the platform’s initiative to turn the Colosseum into a playground for tourists. The offer, which suggests that participants don armor and face off in the famous Roman amphitheater on the occasion of the release of the film Gladiator II, has sparked outrage from local officials and heritage advocates. Rome, proud of its millennia-old history, is determined to make its voice heard against what it considers an improper commercialization of its historical heritage.
The Colosseum: a jewel of world heritage
The Colosseum, emblem of ancient Rome, is not merely a monument; it is a symbol of the culture and history of a people. Built in the 1st century AD, it bears witness to a glorious past where the art of spectacle and architecture intertwined to entertain millions of spectators. Each stone of this amphitheater tells a story, that of the struggles between gladiators and wild beasts, reflecting the mores of the time. To not consider it at its true worth would be an affront to this rich history.
A controversial initiative
Proposing to tourists to become gladiators for a day, even for an evening, raises ethical questions. Critics express their concern about the transformation of the Colosseum into a mere amusement park. Political figures like Massimiliano Smeriglio, culture advisor to the mayor of Rome, speak out against this project, asserting that “the Colosseum cannot and must not be reduced to a mere product.”
The voices of resistance
Voices are rising, particularly those of residents and heritage defenders. Viviana Piccirilli Di Capua and other representatives of the inhabitants of the historic center mention a risk of degradation of their daily lives in the face of an influx of tourists eager to experience this event. For them, pretending to fight in a place of memory is an affront to those who truly sacrificed their lives for the enjoyment of the Romans of that time.
A project that seems inappropriate
Criticized for its approach, Airbnb defends itself by arguing that this experience is designed to raise visitors’ awareness of Roman culture and history. However, many believe that the reconstruction of gladiator battles, even with the best intentions, is more about entertainment than education. The event is thus perceived by some as an insult to the spirit of memory that should prevail in a place so charged with emotions.
A categorical rejection of commercialism
Opponents of Airbnb’s initiative do not stop there. Beyond skepticism about the impact such an event could have on the historical site, they denounce a broader trend: that of the commodification of heritage. Elected officials and citizens of Rome chant in unison: “The Colosseum is not for sale.” They fear that by turning this monument into a commercial product, the city will succumb to the sirens of immediate profit at the expense of its cultural legacy.
Conclusion: Rome facing modernity
In a world where mass tourism redefines cultural practices, Rome finds itself at a crossroads. As attractive offers abound, the eternal city fights to preserve its identity against the excessive consumption of its heritage. The anger of Romans regarding Airbnb’s initiative is a declaration of love for this millenary city, a call for respect for what constitutes the soul of their culture.
