Rome’s iconic Trevi Fountain, long a free‑to‑visit landmark for millions of tourists each year, will now require a €2 ticket for entry to its immediate viewing platform. The fee, equivalent to just over US$2, also grants visitors the right to toss a coin into the fountain’s waters, a ritual traditionally associated with making a wish.
City Authorities Explain the Rationale
The municipal government announced that the charge is intended to fund ongoing conservation work, improve crowd management, and offset the costs of heightened security measures. Officials say the revenue will be earmarked for structural preservation, cleaning, and the installation of additional signage to protect the historic monument from damage caused by excessive foot traffic.
Implementation Details
Tickets can be purchased on‑site from automated kiosks or via a dedicated mobile app. The €2 fee grants a timed entry slot, with visitors allowed a maximum of 30 minutes in the viewing zone. The surrounding piazza and the fountain’s exterior remain accessible without charge, but the close‑up experience—where tourists traditionally gather to photograph and toss coins—will now be ticketed.
Public Reaction
The announcement has sparked a mixed response. Many tourists expressed disappointment, noting that the fee diminishes the spontaneity of the experience and adds an unexpected expense to an already costly trip. Conversely, some local residents and heritage advocates welcomed the measure, arguing that the additional funding is essential to preserve the fountain for future generations and to alleviate the chronic overcrowding that has plagued the site.
Comparative Context
Rome joins a growing list of European cities that have introduced modest entry fees for high‑traffic cultural sites, such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum, where ticketed access helps manage visitor numbers and generate maintenance funds. The €2 charge is among the lowest in the sector, reflecting the city’s attempt to balance accessibility with preservation.
Looking Ahead
The city plans to monitor the impact of the fee over the coming months, with the possibility of adjusting pricing or allocation of proceeds based on visitor feedback and conservation outcomes. Officials emphasize that the core aim is to ensure the Trevi Fountain remains a vibrant, well‑maintained symbol of Rome’s heritage without compromising the experience for the millions who come to admire it each year.
