Massimiliano Smeriglio, Rome's councilor for culture, objected to Airbnb's idea, saying the Colosseum "must not be debased in the eyes of the world."

The Colosseum and Airbnb are facing backlash from some Italian officials and residents after announcing a partnership to bring back gladiator "battles" in Rome for two nights only.

Airbnb might not be able to arrange an overnight stay in the Colosseum, but it will let you fight there. The vacation rental service is offering a unique experience in the historic monument as part of a promotion for the film Gladiator II, which premieres ...

Plans to offer Airbnb customers the chance to take part in gladiator-style battles in Rome’s Colosseum have been decried as an insult to the UNESCO-listed ancient arena.

A new promotion is sparking backlash among some housing advocates in Rome as the Roman Colosseum is set to host mock gladiator battles. ROME — The ancient Roman Colosseum will be the venue of gladiator fights — albeit staged — for the first time in two millennia under a $1.

The event is held in conjunction with the upcoming release of Ridley Scott's "Gladiator II" movie-an anticipated sequel to the earlier 2000's "Gladiator" film.

"The Colosseum is a symbol of Rome’s past, not an amusement park," he said. Others see the partnership as a sign of growing corporate influence over cultural landmarks. Salvator

As Gladiator II hits cinemas, Airbnb and guardians of the Roman ruin team up to offer faux fights there under a deal decried as ‘a disgrace’.