The ancient Roman Colosseum will host gladiator fights for the first time in 2,000 years.

This event is part of a broader effort to boost European heritage tourism, supported by a 1.5 million USD sponsorship deal with Airbnb.

The deal will fund an educational program inside the Roman amphitheatre, highlighting its history and the gladiators who fought there.

Eight Airbnb users and their guests will participate in mock gladiator fights on May 7-8, entering the arena through the same underground passages used by ancient fighters.

Applications open on November 27, and participants will be chosen by lottery.

Built in the 1st century, the Colosseum was the largest Roman amphitheatre, hosting gladiatorial games and hunts until the 6th century.