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Rome Designates Colosseum Area as Red Zone Amid Crime Surge
9/6/2026, 10:12:23 PM
Rome Declares Colosseum Red Zone
Rome’s prefect for security, Lamberto Giannini, issued an ordinance that designates the area surrounding the Colosseum, the Imperial Forums and Colle Oppio as a “red zone.” The measure took effect August 24 and will remain in force until December 24. It expands police powers to remove individuals with criminal records and allows officers to arrest suspected offenders or order them to leave the zone.
Background & Context
Local officials attribute the heightened security to a recent spike in “predatory crimes and drug dealing” near the historic site. Incidents include an unauthorized party in the square outside the Colosseum during which youths set off fireworks and injured two police officers. The prefect links the surge to the opening of the “Roma Colosseo” metro station on Line C, which began service in December 2025 as part of a subway expansion. The station, described as a museum-type hub, is said to provide a new route for marginalized youth into the city centre.
Official Statements & Responses
He characterized the situation as a “serious public emergency” that poses a “risk of serious damage” to sensitive cultural areas. The ordinance also notes that existing security measures had proved inadequate, prompting the deployment of 24-hour police patrols and the continued presence of armed military personnel under the long-standing “Operation Strade Sicure” (Safe Streets) program.
Data & Statistics
- The Colosseum attracts over 7 million visitors annually.
- The July 1 incident involved “around 40 youths” according to one report and “roughly 50 people” according to another.
- Cost estimates for the new metro station vary: one source cites $8.3 billion, another reports £6.1 billion, while a third mentions £61 billion.
- The red-zone order covers a perimeter that also includes Rome’s Termini train station, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Security is tight here, but I just saw a woman get pickpocketed,” — Janelle Triton
