The newly appointed director of Rome’s Colosseum, Simone Quilici, has officially denied rumours that the historic landmark will host any “raves” or electronic music events.
The clarification came after widespread speculation online suggested that large-scale music events could soon take place inside the ancient amphitheatre. The rumours began when Quilici mentioned in a recent interview that he planned to “bring concerts to the Colosseum,” which many interpreted as a potential opening for major contemporary music events.
Speaking to The Associated Press, Quilici made it clear that any future concerts would be strictly monitored and that events featuring loud or bass-heavy music would not be permitted. “The music must be carefully controlled,” he explained. “I mentioned certain artists — not by accident — who play calm music and attract a calm audience, because the important thing is that it’s not a wild crowd.”
His comments came after social media accounts shared AI-generated images of light shows and crowds inside the Colosseum, fuelling the false narrative of “massive raves” being planned at the site. The viral posts quickly prompted backlash from archaeologists and locals concerned about the cultural and historical significance of the 2,000-year-old monument.
In his follow-up statement, Quilici emphasised that the Colosseum will remain a space for carefully curated cultural events that respect its heritage — not for large-scale or high-volume performances.
So, for now, the Eternal City’s most iconic landmark will stay true to its history — no lasers, no bass drops, and certainly no raves beneath the Roman arches.
📎 Source: Associated Press (AP News)
