In May 2025, Rome's Colosseum will return to its original purpose as a fighting arena for the first time in nearly two millennia, as Airbnb offers visitors a chance to train as gladiators. Olivia Palamountain reports

Airbnb's latest "Icons" experience plunges participants into the drama of Ancient Rome with the chance to experience life as a gladiator within the walls of the historic Colosseum.

Taking place on May 7 and 8, 2025, participants will enter the historic amphitheatre after sunset for an epic Roman deep dive inspired by the release of Gladiator II, which airs in UK cinemas from November 15, 2024.

Upon arrival, wannabe gladiators will be led by event "patron", Lucius, into the Colosseum's hypogeum - the underground chambers where gladiators once prepared for battle. Here, they will don historically accurate armour, choosing between traditional gladiator types including murmillo, thraex, provocator, retiarius or contrarete. The exclusive experience includes traversing torch-lit underground passages where ancient warriors once walked, followed by demonstrations of gladiatorial combat performed by seasoned fighters. Participants are encouraged to study these displays carefully before undertaking their own combat training.

In keeping with historical accuracy, guests will be served a traditional gladiator's meal consisting of grapes, pomegranates, almonds, and walnuts - a deliberately light fare designed to maintain fighting readiness. "You're a gladiator, not an emperor. You cannot afford to be gluttonous. Overindulgence will dull your senses and slow your reflexes," the organisers note."Think you have what it takes to become the supreme gladiator?" says 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."

Combat sessions will be overseen by a summa rudis (referee), who will determine participants' fates in the arena. Successful warriors will receive the traditional "infestus pollex" - the gesture of victory.Guests can request to book one of two, three-hour experiences, all of which are free (though participants must arrange their own travel to Rome) here.  Each experience has capacity for up to 16 guests each (8 gladiators and their plus one). Booking opens on November 27 at 6:00 AM PT and closes on December 9 at 11:59 PM PT.

As part of this programme, Airbnb is offering its support to the restoration and enhancement of Colosseum’s heritage, including an ongoing project to restore the permanent exhibition at the Colosseum.

Previous Airbnb Icons experiences include stays in a life-sized Polly Pocket compact and haunted Beetlejuice house, plus the chance to create a bespoke suit inspired by The Incredibles.

Photo credit: Christoper Anderson