Rome's Colosseum: Red Zone for Crime

Rome's iconic Colosseum has been designated a "red zone" as authorities grapple with a "serious public emergency" fueled by rising crime. The measure, implemented in late August and lasting until December 24, involves enhanced around-the-clock police and military presence with expanded arrest and removal powers. Officials attribute the surge in incidents, which have left police injured and tourists victims of petty crime, to "predatory crimes and drug dealing" exacerbated by urban decay.

This designation follows a recent attack involving fireworks and injuries to officers. The opening of a new Colosseum metro station in December 2025 is also cited as a contributing factor, drawing marginalized youth into the historical center. The red zone aims to address a "risk of serious damage" to sensitive areas, with a report expected in September to detail its impact.