Rome, the Eternal City, is grappling with the challenges of overtourism. The city’s charm attracts millions of visitors each year, but the influx has strained popular attractions and impacted the quality of life for locals. To address these concerns, Rome’s tourism chief, Alessandro Onorato, is taking a two-pronged approach: managing visitor traffic at iconic landmarks like the Trevi Fountain and regulating short-term rentals.
Managing the Trevi Fountain Chaos
The Trevi Fountain, a masterpiece of Baroque art, is a magnet for tourists. However, the sheer number of visitors creates chaos, with crowds overwhelming the space and hindering a serene experience. Onorato envisions a reservation system to manage visitor flow and improve the overall experience.
The proposed system will require visitors to make a reservation before descending to the fountain’s level. This will help regulate the number of people at the fountain at any given time, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
The reservation system will also include safety measures, with designated entry and exit points, and a clear path for visitors to follow. A symbolic fee of 2 euros will be charged to tourists, while Roman citizens will be granted free access. These funds will be used to hire stewards and hostesses to manage the crowd and protect the fountain.
The reservation system also aims to curb undesirable behavior, such as littering and jumping into the fountain, which have become common problems. By implementing a reservation system, Rome hopes to create a more controlled and respectful environment for visitors and locals alike.
Tackling the Short-Term Rental Surge
The rise of short-term rentals has been a major concern in Rome, as it has contributed to rising housing costs and made the city less affordable for locals. Rome has taken steps to combat this trend, by implementing registration and building code requirements for short-term rental properties.
Onorato has also launched a crackdown on illegal listings, leading to over 10,000 checks in the past two years alone. The city is determined to make it difficult for individuals to operate unregistered short-term rentals.
Rome’s goal is to restrict the growth of short-term rentals, particularly in the historic center. However, the city’s limited authority presents a challenge. Italy’s current legislation does not provide clear guidelines on the regulation of short-term rentals, leaving local governments with limited power.
Onorato believes national legislation is needed to grant local authorities more autonomy in regulating short-term rentals. He emphasizes the need for flexible regulations tailored to the specific needs of each city.
Rome’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
Rome is making strides in balancing the demands of tourism with the needs of its residents. By implementing a reservation system at the Trevi Fountain and regulating short-term rentals, the city is striving to create a more sustainable and enjoyable environment for all.
Rome’s efforts are a testament to the city’s commitment to protecting its heritage, its residents, and its future. The city’s journey to manage overtourism offers valuable lessons for other destinations facing similar challenges.
