Venice tourists could be banned from the country for good if caught doing this
VENICE is discussing a proposal to ban tourists from sitting church steps or on squares to eat or to rest in the latest crack-down on visitors staying at the historic Italian city.
Venice resident complains about mass tourism
Venice officials have debated the latest move to prevent tourists from sitting or lying down on the ground or steps by churches.
Fines between €50 and €500 could be issued to travellers who are found to be flouting the rules.
Mayor Luigi Brugnaro is debating the new rules following a number of bans for tourists in the city.
The ban could come into place by October when a vote is reached.
Serious cases could result in tourists being forced from the city and even banned from entering
According to Italian news source ANSA, serious cases could result in tourists being forced from the city and even banned from entering.
Sitting on the steps and monuments in St Mark’s Square is already banned.
However, the changes have been met with disdain from local groups and opposition.
Activist group Gruppo Aprile 25 leader Marco Gasparinetti told the Guardian that the list of banned activities means there is “nothing left you can do” in the city.
Despite a group dubbed the Angels of Decorum who target tourists breaking the rules, thousands of police officers would be needed to abide by the list of laws.
Bans in the city have already included takeaway shops from opening in the city, eating snacks while walking or sitting on steps, as well as dipping feet into the canals.
The latest ban could include music on boats no longer being allowed despite this being the main mode of transport for visitors.
Over-tourism has plagued Venice as one of the worst affected destinations for the number of tourists every year.
Anti-tourist groups have previously fought back, blaming tourism for overcrowding and house price increases which mean residents are priced out of the market.
Barriers were even implemented to divide locals and tourists, to allow the former to continue their day without interruption, although these were met with anger by locals and some were torn down.
It is also a major destination for cruise holidays which can bring thousands of tourists per day.
Last year, it issued a ban for cruise ships to enter and travel through the route near Venice.
However, this won’t be brought into effect until 2022, where they will instead dock on the mainland Marghera.
Other bans across Italy have included beach towels in Sardinia, single-use plastic across Italian islands and holiday home rentals in Valencia.
Spain and Croatia have been badly affected by mass tourism also, with both bringing in new bans for holidaymakers.