Rome Bans Souvenir Stands From Major Monuments

Starting on January 1, stalls selling key rings, fridge magnets, decorative plates, figurines, and other souvenirs were removed from areas like the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Colosseum, and Piazza Navona. Vans selling visitor snacks near the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus were also removed.

“For years,” said Raggi, “the monuments of the city have been tarnished by vendors who sell drinks, panini, and trinkets in front of Rome’s architectural jewels. This is no longer tolerable.”

This ban is part of a series of steps to clean up the city’s historic areas. Recent bans have also been enacted to prevent people from sitting on the Spanish Steps, eating certain foods by monuments, and walking around shirtless.