Italy is set to introduce measures limiting the number of tourists visiting the iconic Trevi Fountain in Rome. Tourists will soon be required to make advance reservations with designated time slots for their visit.
Rome’s city council revealed that these restrictions are being considered due to the overwhelming number of tourists expected in the coming year. As the “Eternal City” prepares to host a major year-long celebration in 2025 for Roman Catholics, the city expects to welcome up to 32 million visitors, including pilgrims and tourists.
Under the proposed plan, tourists must pre-book their visit, and a limited number will be allowed access to the steps surrounding the fountain at any given time to prevent overcrowding. This is a significant shift from the usual practice where visitors have been allowed to roam freely around the area.
The Trevi Fountain, where visitors traditionally toss a coin to ensure their return to Rome and have their wishes fulfilled, has long been a popular destination, even among world leaders. However, it’s not only Rome dealing with overtourism. Other European tourist hotspots, such as Venice in Italy and Barcelona in Spain, are also facing local protests and implementing measures like tourist entry fees to manage the influx of visitors. (TNA)
