Visitors heading to Rome’s emblematic Trevi Fountain are being met with disappointment as the landmark has been closed down for remodeling work. Officials have reported daily coin donations at normal times upwards of 3,200, but for now, the site has been substituted by a makeshift wishing well, drawing criticism for its lack of allure.
The initiative to drain the fountain and close off the picturesque spot for renovations commenced last month. This is part of a broader plan to eventually impose local access fees for the millions of annual visitors. Tourism representative Alessandro Onorato told AP about the proposed ~$2 fee, arguing that such measures were necessary to maintain order whilst safeguarding the city’s center for local residents and ensuring tourist satisfaction.
As a makeshift solution, an elevated pathway has been put in place, offering access to the temporary wishing well. After the completion of ongoing works, it has been proposed that prime viewing areas will require timed reservations. This is the first time any regulations have been introduced in the vicinity since the fountain’s construction in 1732.
However, this abrupt replacement by a ‘municipal swimming pool’ drew flak on social media forums. This reform is part of a wider trend across popular Mediterranean destinations looking to combat rising overcrowded tourism, marked by considerations for similar fee impositions at popular stop-offs like Mykonos and Santorini.
