A controversial footbridge has been installed around one of Rome’s most famous landmarks – and some tourists are less than impressed.
The Trevi Fountain’s lower basin is currently undergoing £250,000 maintenance works, with the rest of the site also set to be thoroughly cleaned and restored.
As a result, a temporary walkway has been constructed around the foundation, allowing visitors to still view the monument’s various aspects.
This platform was inaugurated on Saturday, November 9, however it has faced mixed reactions.
The walkway may be functional but the lack of aesthetic appeal has made it an eyesore for many visitors.
“It’s ugly,” said Daniela Carbone, who still allowed her children to toss coins in the substitute pool as tradition dictates.
Moreover, some shopkeepers fear this metal structure could damage the famous landmark and thus the initiative could have serious consequences.
“We do not agree because, as you can see, it is very ugly and we fear it might spoil the fountain,” said the owner of a nearby pharmacy, while others also felt “concerned” about the lack of space for negotiation with authorities.
“We want more dialogue with City Hall” and for them to listen to “the suggestions we make” since, although “something needs to be done to manage tourism, it should have everyone’s agreement,” added the pharmacist.
Defending the footbridge, Rome’s mayor Roberto Gualtieri insisted that it allows “for a truly unique enjoyment, even during these important and necessary maintenance works.”
Officials in Rome are also mulling whether to limit access to the Trevi Fountain, as the city grapples with the impact that overtourism is having on the late baroque masterpiece, with picket pocketing in the area becoming increasingly rife.
Plans to implement a scheme aimed at regulating the number of visitors approaching the monument by charging two euros (£1.65) for access to the steps leading up to the fountain could soon be in place.
The idea is “to study better management of tourist group queues, avoid constant overcrowding” and achieve “more responsible, slower tourism that respects the city and leaves tourists with positive memories,” said Alessandro Onorato, Rome’s Tourism Councillor.
