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.

The short-term rentals company is promising armour and sword fights at the ancient arena to a chosen few, but Rome's councillor for culture and local housing activists have criticised the plan.

Airbnb is giving people a chance to role-play as gladiators as part of a film promotion — to the dismay of some locals.

From the Renaissance city of Florence to the Eternal City of Rome, government officials, and more importantly, the residents of these ancient, historical wonders, have protested against booking platform giants such as Airbnb buying up endless properties in their historic centers and Piazzas to turn a profit: offering tourists short-term and long-term stays in their properties while residents are pushed aside;

The company are giving history buffs the chance to 'suit up and unleash your inner gladiator inside Rome's legendary arena'.