Rome Considers 2-Euro Fee for Trevi Fountain Access

Rome's iconic Trevi Fountain, a magnet for tourists seeking to secure their return to the Eternal City, may soon require a 2-euro ($2.25) entrance fee. This proposal, put forth by Rome's top tourism official Alessandro Onorato, aims to address the challenges posed by mass tourism at one of the city's most visited landmarks.

The Trevi Fountain, completed in 1762, stands as one of the largest Baroque fountains in Rome, measuring 26.3 meters high and 49.15 meters wide. Its allure has been amplified by appearances in classic films like "La Dolce Vita" and "Roman Holiday", contributing to its status as a must-see destination.

Onorato explained the rationale behind the proposed fee:

"Two euros is more or less the same amount that people toss into the fountain to make a wish."

The initiative follows Venice's recent trial of a 5-euro fee for daytrippers, reflecting a growing trend among popular tourist destinations to manage visitor numbers effectively.

If approved, the new system would utilize QR codes and reservations, potentially launching in time for the 2025 Jubilee Holy Year. The fee would apply only to tourists entering the nine stone steps leading to the fountain's edge, while locals and passersby would be exempt.

Interestingly, the tradition of throwing coins into the fountain generates approximately 3,000 euros daily, which is used to fund a supermarket for Rome's needy. The proposed fee could potentially augment these charitable efforts while also helping to preserve the site.

The plan aims to address various issues, including overcrowding and inappropriate behavior. Onorato noted that the system could discourage activities such as eating on the steps, feeding pigeons, or attempting to recreate Anita Ekberg's famous fountain scene from "La Dolce Vita" – an act that currently carries a fine.

Rome's mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, has expressed support for the proposal, which must still be approved by the City Council. The initiative reflects a broader challenge faced by cities worldwide: balancing the economic benefits of tourism with the need to preserve cultural heritage and maintain quality of life for residents.

As cities grapple with these issues, innovative solutions like Rome's proposed Trevi Fountain fee may become more common. Whether this approach will successfully manage tourism while preserving the magic of spontaneous visits to iconic landmarks remains to be seen.