The idea of introducing a paid access to the Trevi Fountainput forward by Rome’s Tourism Councilor Alessandro Onorato in an interview with Corriere della Serais causing a lot of debate. The project includes a booking system to regulate tourist flows, with free access for Roman residents and a symbolic ticket of one euro for tourists taking inspiration from what was done in Venice.
This proposal arises from the need to address the phenomenon of overtourismthat is, tourist overcrowding that risks damaging historic sites and worsening the experience for both visitors and residents.
According to Onorato, limiting access to the fountain could guarantee a more orderly and respectful use of such an iconic place, often crowded at all hours of the day. The initiative also aims to discourage inappropriate behaviorsuch as consuming food and drink near the monument, a forbidden but still widespread habit.
Great attention is also paid to the issue of illegal B&Bs
The idea has been welcomed by some, such as Lorenzo Tagliavanti, president of the Rome Chamber of Commerce, who believes it is necessary to find a solution to better manage tourist flows, not only at the Trevi Fountain but also in other critical points of the city. Tagliavanti underlines the importance of a more “horizontal” tourism, which allows visitors to discover even less central areas of Rome, reducing the pressure on the historic centre.
At the same time, Councilor Onorato expressed concern about the boom in non-hotel facilities, such as B&Bs. We have gone from 17,000 to 30,000 authorized by the Municipality, but many of these operate in a abusivethreatening the quality of life of residents and the integrity of the historical-artistic heritage.
The Municipality is trying to obtain greater autonomy to regulate these activitieswith the aim of protecting the center of Rome and preserving its cultural heritage. For the moment it continues crackdown on squatters with over 10,000 reported in the last two years.
