Rome Bans Souvenir Stalls

Trinket shops around popular tourist destinations of Rome have been banned since January 1, 2020. The decision comes from the city council to avoid congestion and overcrowding at popular tourist spots.

A total of 17 stalls have been asked to move, including those outside the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, around the Spanish Steps, and in Piazza Navona, which is an oval-shaped piazza that was once an ancient Roman chariot track.

The decision has been undertaken keeping in mind overcrowding and security reasons at these sites. The small, mobile shops sell trinkets, keychains, Colosseum statuettes and mini-figures of the Pope, along with drinks and panini at some places.  

According to media reports, the city council led by Virginia Raggi said the stalls were &ldquoincompatible with decorum and security.&rdquo Their removal was intended to &ldquoprotect the cultural and monumental heritage of the capital, as well as public safety in crowded areas. The stalls &ldquoruin the image of Rome."

Out of the 17 stalls that have been removed, only 8 have been relocated permanently to a spot far away from the monuments.