Speaking to Associated Press, he added that jazz and acoustic music would be acceptable.
No “raves” to be held in Rome’s Colosseum, director confirms following rumours
Speaking to Associated Press, he added that jazz and acoustic music would be acceptable.
The newly appointed director of the Colosseum, Simone Quilici, has clarified earlier remarks about cultural events at the iconic Roman landmark to confirm they will not be hosting any “raves” or electronic music events.
The announcement was made to clear up rumours that circulated after he said in a recent interview that he would be bringing concerts to the nearly 2,000-year-old amphitheatre.
Speaking to The Associated Press, he clarified that any concerts held at the Colosseum would be strictly monitored and any events with loud music, particularly with lots of bass, would be not be allowed.
Quilici was forced to clarify his comments after an initial statement was reported by numerous social media accounts with AI-generated images of vibrant light shows that proclaimed “massive raves” would be coming to they historic landmark.
These reports led to complaints from archaeologists and locals who were concerned that the cultural and historical significance of the site was being disrespected. “The music must be carefully controlled,” Quilici told AP in his follow-up interview. “I mentioned certain artists — not by accident — who haven’t been ‘rock’ for some time, who play calm music and attract a calm audience, because the important thing is that it’s not a wild crowd.”
Adding that jazz and acoustic music would be acceptable, he continued: “I joked about rock in moderation — that’s what I meant, a more subdued kind of music. But it was reported the opposite of what I said.”
The Colosseum has hosted a small number of carefully controlled concerts in the past, including Ray Charles in 2002, Paul McCartney in 2003 and Andrea Bocelli in 2009. All were billed as special events, and audience numbers were severely restricted.
“Unfortunately, as everyone knows, tourism is a commercial activity — an industry that does not always connect with culture,” he said on the Colosseum’s uppermost balcony. “Bringing cultural activities into the mix would enrich this place, making it not only a site to visit, but also a place where one can experience and enjoy artistic events.”
He went on to say that he expected to see the first concerts and performances at the Colosseum in no less than two years.
Earlier this month, the Egyptian Centre for Economic and Social Rights (ECESR) filed a lawsuit against Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Supreme Council of Antiquities, and the Governor of Giza, calling for the suspension of large-scale music events at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
