The Winter Olympics feature peculiar traditions, including the renaming of venues for the duration of the games, leading to the recent opening ceremony being held at the 'Milano San Siro Olympic Stadium.' This name change has drawn curiosity and criticism, suggesting a disconnect from the traditional identities of these historical sites. The upcoming closing ceremony is scheduled for the Arena di Verona, an ancient Roman amphitheater built around 30 AD, renowned as one of the best-preserved in the world, and frequently used for operatic performances since 1913.

The Verona Arena, known as a cultural bastion, has hosted numerous events ranging from opera to rock concerts, especially during the summer months. It embodies the rich history of Italian performance art, and yet, for the Olympics, it has been renamed 'Verona Olympic Arena,' drawing ire from many cultural purists who see this as a disrespect to such a significant historical structure. The closing ceremony promises to be a grand event, featuring operatic characters, a volunteer choir, and an all-Italian playlist, yet the name change raises questions about the commercialization of cultural heritage.

The implications of renaming historic venues reverberate beyond the event, challenging the importance of place and identity in a world that increasingly commercializes culture for international events. The situation highlights the tension between tradition and modernity, and the need for a balance that honors historical significance while adapting to contemporary practices. As spectators gather for the closing ceremony, these conversations about identity and respect for cultural sites will be resonating in the background, reminding us of the legacy that events like the Olympics leave behind.