Rome Plans to Restrict Access to Trevi Fountain Amid Overtourism Concerns
Rome is considering measures to limit access to the Trevi Fountain due to overtourism. City officials are discussing the possibility of requiring visitors to reserve timed slots in advance, while residents may visit for free. A symbolic fee of one to two euros for non-residents aims to control crowd size and discourage behaviors like loitering and eating near the monument, rather than raising funds.
This debate has gained urgency as Rome prepares for the 2025 Jubilee, which is expected to attract millions of tourists. Similar steps have been taken elsewhere, such as in Greece with the Acropolis and in Venice with entry fees, as European cities grapple with the effects of overtourism on their landmarks.
Additionally, Rome had tightened its regulations to prevent inappropriate behavior around its iconic fountains, such as attempts to recreate the famous scene from La Dolce Vita. In response to the growing number of incidents, including tourists swimming or picnicking near these landmarks, fines of up to €240 were put in place. Police increased their presence around major monuments like the Trevi Fountain and the Barcaccia, which had previously suffered damage from disrespectful visitors.
Near the Trevi Fountain, a similar incident occurred when a 19-year-old Dutch woman and a 44-year-old Italian-American woman clashed over a selfie spot. Their verbal disagreement quickly escalated into a physical fight, with their family members joining in, resulting in a brawl involving eight people. Although police initially managed to break it up, the fight resumed, requiring additional officers to intervene. Both women suffered minor bruises but were charged with violent behavior.
The proposed measures to limit access to the Trevi Fountain reflect the growing tension between preserving Rome’s cultural heritage and managing the impact of mass tourism. As the city grapples with the challenges posed by large crowds, the success of these measures could influence future decisions not only in Rome but in other tourist-heavy destinations. The focus now shifts to how these regulations will be implemented and their impact on both residents and visitors, shaping the future of tourism in the Eternal City.