Between these images stands a one-year difference. The awe-inspiring Colosseum also had to close its doors because of the coronavirus. It remained that way for 84 days, and its reopening was quite the event.
“We weren't expecting so much excitement.”
“We're excited. Finally, after all this time, we can see our city again.”
“It's another step toward normality, so we're happy.”
Only Romans could visit during the first days after the monument's reopening. Airspace was practically closed, leaving tourists out. Not even Italians could travel between regions, which is why Rome took on an aspect resembling that of the 1950s, when Romans had the whole city to themselves.
“This will never happen again. That's precisely why we wanted to be here, among the first to enter.”
“Everything for us. It's perfect.”
Starting today, tickets can be purchased exclusively online, and only small groups will be allowed to enter at a time. All visitors must have their temperatures taken before entering.
To avoid crowding, only 650 people will be allowed access to the monument each day. Before the lockdown period began, there were over 20,000 visitors daily.
Italy expects international tourism will take a while to get back on its feet, which is why the country will promote internal tourism during the summer.
Javier Romero
Translation: Claudia Torres
