Rome's renowned Trevi Fountain, after a three-month restoration, is set to manage visitor numbers effectively with a new queuing system.
**Rome Implements Crowd Control at Trevi Fountain Following Restoration**
**Rome Implements Crowd Control at Trevi Fountain Following Restoration**
New measures introduced to enhance visitor experience at iconic landmark.
The Trevi Fountain, a baroque masterpiece in Rome, has reopened its doors following an extensive three-month restoration aimed at both cleaning and preserving the landmark. Designed by the esteemed architect Nicola Salvi in the 18th century, the fountain is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a cultural icon of the city.
Historically, the fountain attracted between 10,000 and 12,000 visitors daily, leading to overcrowded conditions that detracted from the experience of the site. To combat this, Rome's Mayor Roberto Gualtieri announced the implementation of a new queuing system. He stated that this measure would “allow everyone to better enjoy the fountain, without crowds or confusion.”
During the reopening ceremony on Sunday, attended by several hundred tourists who participated in the age-old tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain, the mayor also mentioned the potential for instituting a small entry fee. This fee would contribute to the fountain's maintenance, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The restoration project, which included the removal of mould and calcium deposits, was completed just in time for the upcoming jubilee of the Roman Catholic Church. This cleaning initiative also coincides with the improvements made to other prominent city sites, showcasing Rome's commitment to preserving its rich heritage.
The fountain itself has a storied history, commissioned by Pope Clement XII in 1730 and marking the end of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct that has supplied water to ancient Rome. According to local legend, Roman soldiers discovered the water source in 19 BC with assistance from a young virgin, giving rise to the fountain's name. The tradition of making wishes by tossing coins, popularized by the movie "Three Coins in the Fountain" starring Frank Sinatra, remains a cherished part of the experience.
With new measures in place, Rome seeks to ensure that visitors to the Trevi Fountain can enjoy its beauty without the disruption of overwhelming crowds.
Historically, the fountain attracted between 10,000 and 12,000 visitors daily, leading to overcrowded conditions that detracted from the experience of the site. To combat this, Rome's Mayor Roberto Gualtieri announced the implementation of a new queuing system. He stated that this measure would “allow everyone to better enjoy the fountain, without crowds or confusion.”
During the reopening ceremony on Sunday, attended by several hundred tourists who participated in the age-old tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain, the mayor also mentioned the potential for instituting a small entry fee. This fee would contribute to the fountain's maintenance, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The restoration project, which included the removal of mould and calcium deposits, was completed just in time for the upcoming jubilee of the Roman Catholic Church. This cleaning initiative also coincides with the improvements made to other prominent city sites, showcasing Rome's commitment to preserving its rich heritage.
The fountain itself has a storied history, commissioned by Pope Clement XII in 1730 and marking the end of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct that has supplied water to ancient Rome. According to local legend, Roman soldiers discovered the water source in 19 BC with assistance from a young virgin, giving rise to the fountain's name. The tradition of making wishes by tossing coins, popularized by the movie "Three Coins in the Fountain" starring Frank Sinatra, remains a cherished part of the experience.
With new measures in place, Rome seeks to ensure that visitors to the Trevi Fountain can enjoy its beauty without the disruption of overwhelming crowds.
