Breaking News: Rome Considers Limiting Access to Trevi Fountain Ahead of Expected Tourism Boom in 2025 Jubilee
Rome city council officials are considering implementing restrictions on access to the iconic Trevi Fountain in preparation for the influx of tourists expected to visit the Eternal City during the 2025 Jubilee. The proposed measures include requiring visitors to make reservations in advance, allocating fixed time slots, and limiting the number of people allowed on the fountain's steps.
According to Rome's tourism councillor Alessandro Onorato, locals may have free access to the fountain, while non-residents could be asked to make a symbolic contribution of one or two euros. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri has acknowledged the need for measures to manage the increasing tourist numbers, describing the situation at the Trevi Fountain as "technically very difficult to manage."
Overtourism is a growing concern in popular destinations like Barcelona and Venice, where authorities have experimented with entry charges for visitors. The Trevi Fountain, known for the tradition of tossing coins to ensure a return to Rome and granting wishes, has attracted visitors from around the world, including world leaders.
Completed in 1762, the Trevi Fountain is a stunning Baroque masterpiece featuring statues of Tritons and the god Oceanus. It is also famous for its appearance in Federico Fellini's classic film "La Dolce Vita," where actress Anita Ekberg famously wades into the fountain and calls out to her co-star Marcello Mastroianni.
In conclusion, the proposed restrictions at the Trevi Fountain reflect the challenges posed by overtourism in popular destinations. By managing visitor numbers and implementing reservation systems, cities can protect their cultural heritage and ensure a more sustainable tourism experience for both locals and visitors.