Pizza, pasta, gelato … I bet these are some of the things you plan (and dream) on eating when you visit Italy. I bet you’ve even gone so far as to dream (and plan) on grabbing a gelato and eating savoring it while you take in the sights of the fabulous Piazza Navona … the Spanish Steps … the Coliseum … or any other famous landmark in Rome. Hold that thought though. Don’t think you’re going to transport yourself onto a movie screen when you visit Rome and eat your heart out around the city, like so many countless films you’ve seen before.
Why you ask? Well, because as absolutely absurd as it may sound, it is now a crime to eat on or around any public monument or landmark (which is every place you turn in Rome’s city center). It is a crime that can be fined from 25 – 500 Euros (about $32 – $650 USD).
No more stopping at my favorite gelateria and walking to Piazza Navona while I sit and enjoy my cool treat and take in the energy of the piazza … ancient fountains, street performers, artwork, people watching … it has all come to an end. That is, unless I want to pay a hefty fine for enjoying my gelato in that picturesque setting. And I can tell you, I do not.
This crazy rule is not only for gelato. It also applies to eating a panino (sandwich), a slice of pizza, a bag of chips, or any other snack food or dessert.
As NBC News noted on their website, after receiving fines and learning about the new law, several tourists pointed out the fact that there are no signs in the vicinity alerting people that they are no longer allowed to partake in any food or drink while near the various monuments. NBC News reports that police in the area were asked about the complaint and said there was no need for signs. A local policeman patrolling the area is reported as saying, “It’s common sense. You can’t dirty such a beautiful and historical monument with ice cream and bread crumbs just because you can sit on it.” You know, dirtying and vandalizing a historical monument is one thing, but trying to control the free world is entirely something else.
Another thing that makes the matter even worse, is that many eating establishments have very limited or no seating available, forcing patrons to take their food to go. Where exactly are people supposed to eat? This I would like to know.
I would also like to know why the city can’t put those same policemen in place to prohibit the horrid men who force roses into your hand then try to get money from you by chasing you down, or the men who shine the damn toy lasers that they are trying to sell directly into your eye (pet peeve of mine, can you tell?), or the men who sell illegal goods displayed on a bed sheet along the sidewalks who speak ugly words to you if you gaze an extra second at their merchandise and then not stop to by something. To me, these are a few of the things that are ruining and dirtying those beautiful and historical monuments. Nothing is being done to address those matters.
So … if you’re planning to visit Rome, don’t plan on eating your Italian treats outside while enjoying the fresh air and taking in the amazing scenery the city has to offer. You’ll have to savor your morsels inside.
Well that does seem absurd. I can see a fine if they catch you littering, but to just be eating something? That’s just wrong. And I totally agree with you on the other matter as well. I hate being harassed by vendors when I’m trying to sightsee.
I know, Kim … isn’t it crazy?! Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to leave a comment. Hope you have a great weekend!
I believe this rule applies to Venice also. Mainly around Churches and monuments. Personally I think its an excellent idea. And it has nothing to do with litter. He has to do with wear and tear. Can you imagine what the Mona Lisa would look like it the Louvre let people touch it or even breath on it. All historic monuments should be protected for the benefit of future generations.
I do see your point, Nobby. It’s just difficult to all of a sudden get used to. Not to mention, everywhere you turn in Rome’s city center can be classified as historic. I think the city should take a better stand on educating visitors and residents alike (introducing signs, etc) instead of just showing up and passing out fines one day. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts! 🙂
The Rome Mayor said the police will not give tourists problems for eating the pizza slice or the icecream but their target are the homeless and people pretending to have the picnic in roman squares and strrets.