Rome Declares “Red Zone” Around the Colosseum to Counter Rising Crime

In late August, Rome’s municipal authorities designated the area surrounding the ancient Colosseum a “red zone.” The ordinance expands police and military presence and grants security officers broader powers to arrest or remove individuals deemed a threat. The red zone is scheduled to remain in effect until December 24.

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Authorities have linked the heightened security measures to a pattern of violent incidents near the historic site. In July, an attack involving fireworks left about 50 young people and several police officers injured, which officials described as part of “predatory crimes and drug dealing” tied to urban decay. The newly opened Colosseum metro station—part of an $8.3 billion subway expansion that began service in December 2025—has been cited as a conduit for marginalized youth targeting tourists after nightfall. Nearby attractions such as Termini train station, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore have also seen increased police activity.

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• Approx. 50 youths involved in the July fireworks attack.

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• $8.3 billion invested in the metro project that includes a multi-floor underground museum.

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• Red-zone security includes round-the-clock police patrols and a military contingent with camouflage-clad officers and vehicles.

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Lamberto Giannini, the official responsible for Rome’s security, characterized the situation as a “serious public emergency” that poses a “risk of serious damage” to sensitive cultural areas. He argued that existing measures were insufficient and that the red-zone ordinance was necessary to protect both residents and visitors. A spokesperson for the prefect declined to comment further, noting that a report slated for September will assess the red zone’s impact on crime.

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• “Security is tight here, but I just saw a woman get pickpocketed,” — Janelle Triton — Janelle Triton, American tourist from Philadelphia.

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