Cypress historians surrounding the mausoleum of Augustus will be demolished in Rome (and on social media mounts anger)

With the arrival of autumn, the landscape of Piazza Augusto Emperor is radically changing. In fact, the work of the demolition of historical cypresses that for decades have framed the mausoleum of Augustus, one of the oldest symbols in the capital, began. The news did not go unnoticed: some citizens reported the presence of workers at work around the circular sepulcher. An announcement that aroused concern and amazement, especially among those who were not aware of the reasons already communicated months ago by the Capitoline Superintendency.

The reasons for the choice

The cut is part of a new phase of works for the museumization of the mausoleum and the arrangement of the square. The goal is to create an accessible ring road, which allows the public to visit the surrounding green area safe. The technicians explained that in recent years the cypresses had been subjected to CNR checks, which had highlighted critical conditions: several plants were enhanced and at risk of falling, thus representing a danger to visitors and operators.

The future of green

The removed trees will be replaced with new specimens of Cypress Totem, a variety chosen for its resistance, compact bearing and the ability to adapt to the urban and climatic context. These plants will reach a maximum height of 10 meters and will not require pruning interventions, with the aim of guaranteeing the landscape safety and harmony. The superintendency has specified that the project has obtained all the necessary authorizations and follows environmental sustainability criteria.

Controversy and reactions

However, the criticisms were not lacking. Some representatives of the Town Hall I expressed their opposition, underlining the symbolic value of the original trees for the memory of the city. Many posts on social networks of indignant citizens who speak of a real “havoc”. The perplexities also concern the times: the new cypresses will take decades to achieve the same grandeur as the demolished, leaving the square without its historical frame for a long time.

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