Step into the Roman Colosseum, a colossal amphitheater built nearly 2,000 years ago that has seen it all: gladiators battling for glory, emperors watching with bated breath, and crowds roaring for victory or redemption. Now, for the first time in a long time, the Colosseum returns to its original purpose as a performance venue, inviting courageous warriors to step foot inside the historic arena to forge their paths and shape their destinies.

Unleash your inner gladiator and rise to the challenge with Airbnb, suiting up in historically accurate armour and putting your skills to the test to determine your fate in battle. May you emerge triumphant and establish yourself as the ultimate gladiator, earning your place in history inside Rome’s legendary arena.

“Think you have what it takes to become the supreme gladiator?” asks Lucius. “This trial will separate the weak from the strong, where only those with true strength and honour will rise above. For the courageous who accept the challenge, I open the gates of the Colosseum for you to prove your worth before the highest of Rome. Suit up and get ready for battle, for what we do in life echoes in eternity…”

What to Expect from This Experience

Situated at the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, guests interested in this Airbnb Icons experience can request to book one of two, three-hour experiences happening May 7 to 8, 2025, at $0 per person. Every experience accommodates up to 16 guests (8 guests and their plus ones). As young warriors like yourselves step foot inside the arena, here is what awaits:

– The patron will meet you at the Colosseum after sunset and lead you inside. Whether you emerge from this night victor or vanquished, your eyes will embrace a sight not often seen. The memory of the Colosseum aglimmer in candlelight will be yours.

– Descend into the hypogeum, the underground chambers where gladiators prepare for battle. There, you will don armour that most closely reflects your gladiator type, whether that be murmillo, trax, provocator, retiarius, or contrarete. Choose wisely.

– Traverse the torch-lit, labyrinthine bowels of the Colosseum where Maximus and countless other warriors walked before you. Reflect on their fate, and yours, as you trace their historic steps.

– Savour the symphony of swords and shields as seasoned gladiators engage in a thrilling showdown for your benefit. You must study them for your turn will soon follow.

– Enjoy a spread of victuals like grapes, pomegranates, almonds, and walnuts. You are a gladiator, not an emperor. You cannot afford to be gluttonous. Overindulgence will dull your senses and slow your reflexes.

– 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.

Subsequently, do not forget to catch Gladiator II, only in cinemas this November.

How to Request to Book

Those courageous enough to step into history may request to book the Colosseum for the exclusive gladiator experience beginning November 27 at 10:00 PM MYT at airbnb.com/gladiatormovie up until December 10 at 3:59 PM MYT when the request window closes. Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Rome, Italy.

Interested in other Airbnb Icons? Learn more at airbnb.com/icons.

Featured image: Daniele Castellaro
Images courtesy of Airbnb