Due to security concerns in the area surrounding the Colosseum, one of the main tourist destinations in Rome, the authorities have put the tourist site under stricter security measures; therefore, the place is now declared a “red zone.”
This system began operating as of August and is planned to be used in Rome until December 24, 2026. According to the new regulations, the police gained additional powers to ensure the maintenance of public order, including the removal of troublemakers from the territory.
The decision was caused by some incidents near the Colosseum, one of which took place in July when a group of about 50 young men attacked law enforcers with fireworks leading to injuries of law enforcement personnel. The authorities regard this event as a part of the overall problem of street crime and drug dealing in the region.
New security measures have been introduced at several other tourist spots, namely Termini Station, Basilica of St.Peter, and Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Police patrols will come to the area of the tourist sites and will work with the military who are in charge of security at the important tourist destinations already.
Although there have been more law enforcement officials in the area, pickpockets still present a problem. Janelle Triton, an American tourist, reported seeing a woman fall victim to pickpockets at the Colosseum. By the time the police responded, the criminal had already taken off.
In addition, Triton informed that her hotel cautioned guests against going to the Colosseum in the evening. Therefore, she made sure not to go to the area after sunset.
The developments around pickpockets come as Rome continues to invest a lot of money into the transit system. A new metro station was completed in December 2025, which is a part of the $8.3 billion expansion of the underground train system in the city.
As security chief of Rome, Lamberto Giannini mentioned that the opening of the new metro station is one of the causes that could be behind the increased number of incidents. The metro opens more opportunities for the youth who have poorer social status, according to the police, making this particular category of people aware of the tourists passing by.
The purpose of introducing the red zone policy was due to inadequacies in existing public order measures pertaining to sensitive zones. Authorities seek to track the effectiveness of red zone restrictions and determine their impact in a report due to be issued in September.
For tourists, the announcement does not indicate that Rome or the Colosseum will no longer be accessible for visits by tourists. Hence, it is highly advisable that tourists keep the necessary caution while they gather in public places and make sure to safeguard their belongings according to security recommendations.
