It’s no secret that over tourism has been an ongoing issue in Italy, particularly at its famous landmarks like Rome’s Trevi Fountain. Now, city officials are considering new measures to tackle the problem.
The government is reportedly looking at a timed ticket system to help manage the crowds at the Trevi Fountain. According to The Washington Post, the plan would involve free tickets for Romans and a small fee of one or two euros for tourists. The goal is to protect and preserve the monument while allowing visitors to have a more peaceful experience.
The idea of a ticket system is gaining traction, with Rome’s Mayor Roberto Gualtieri calling it a “concrete possibility.” Tourism in Italy is booming, with record numbers in 2023. Amidst all the debate the Vatican’s Jubilee is coming in 2025, with another 30 million pilgrims expected to flood to Rome.
Not everyone is on board with crowd control measures. Katie Parla, a Rome-based author and tour guide, is concerned visitors and locals won’t benefit from restricting access to such an intensely trafficked part of the city.
While debates continue, one thing is clear, finding the balance between preserving Italy’s heritage and maintaining its massive tourism influx is in the spotlight.
