The director for the Rome Colosseum has responded to rumours that the historic site would soon be used for raves.

Simone Quilici, who was recently appointed as the director for the landmark, spoke out to clarify that those running the site now will not be using it to host any electronic music events or raves.

He clarified the stance after he previously got people talking by saying that he would be using his time as director to bring more concerts to the amphitheatre, which is nearly 2000 years old.

Those comments soon got momentum, and were spread across multiple social media accounts alongside AI-generated images of intense light shows at the historic site, insinuating that raves would be taking place soon.

Now, speaking to The Associated Press, Quilici has responded to complaints from locals and archaeologists, and stated that the news he shared about “more concerts” have been taken wildly out of context.

“The music must be carefully controlled,” he explained. “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.”

Looks like the raves at Rome’s Colosseum are officially off the table! The new director has clarified that only “calm music” events will happen, focusing on soothing genres instead. Check out the full scoop on this and why locals are concerned at https://t.co/9WBHMD87tt (via M…

— We Love Deephouse (@WeLoveDeephouse) October 30, 2025

He then said that acoustic music, classical music and jazz would be acceptable, and that he “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,” he continued.

“Unfortunately, as everyone knows, tourism is a commercial activity — an industry that does not always connect with culture. 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 then told the outlet that the first run of planned performances are likely to take place within the next two years, although it remains unknown who the announced artists will be.

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There have been a select number of live music performances held at the Colosseum in the past, including a one-off performance from Ray Charles in 2002, and one from Paul McCartney the following year. DJ Mag reports that Andrea Bocelli also performed there in 2009, and all the events so far have seen audience numbers severely restricted.

It also highlights how the comments from Quilici denying claims of rave events being planned also come around the same time that a lawsuit was filed for a similar reason in Egypt by the Egyptian Centre for Economic and Social Rights (ECESR).

The legal action is being taken against the country’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Supreme Council of Antiquities, and the Governor of Giza – and calls for the suspension of large-scale music events being held at the Pyramids of Giza.