Rome ramps up security around Colosseum with new ‘red zone’ targeting criminals

Rome Declares “Red Zone” Around the Colosseum After July 1 Fireworks Clash

Prefect Lamberto Giannini’s order gives authorities new powers to clear violent offenders from the city’s most iconic streets until Christmas Eve.

Rome, Italy – In a sweeping move aimed at curbing rising disorder in the capital’s historic center, Rome Prefect Lamberto Giannini issued an order on August 24 declaring a “red zone” or enhanced‑control area around the Colosseum, the Imperial Forums, Colle Oppio and a string of other landmark sites. The decree, which will remain in effect for four months through December 24, gives police the authority to remove people whose behavior poses a public‑safety risk.

The Sparks That Lit the Fire

The decision follows a violent confrontation that unfolded on July 1, when Rome Capital police officers were dispatched to a fireworks display near the Colosseum. A group of roughly 50 non‑EU nationals allegedly resisted officers, damaged police property and left two officers with minor injuries. The altercation, described as an unauthorized gathering in Piazza del Colosseo, was the tipping point after a “resurgence of disorder” had been noted in the area. Officials say the fireworks may have been used to distract potential crime victims.

Police reports point to the group’s predatory crimes and drug dealing as major contributors to the escalating unrest. The authorities have singled out the terrace at Largo Gaetana Agnesi – a popular perch overlooking the Colosseum that sits above the new Metro C station – and the adjacent Colle Oppio park as frequent gathering spots for the offending groups.

A Zone that Covers Rome’s Most‑Visited Streets

The new red zone spans a wide swath of the historic center, including Piazza Venezia, Via dei Fori Imperiali, the Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Campidoglio and the Colosseum itself. It also covers the recently opened Metro C station that serves the amphitheater, as well as another subway stop within the zone. “The new subway link has created a direct connection between the historic center and eastern neighborhoods, which has contributed to the security challenges by bringing large numbers of commuters and tourists into an area where criminal activity has been observed,” the order states.

Under the decree, police may remove individuals who engage in violent, threatening or persistently disruptive behavior and who have been reported in the past five years for offenses such as intentional crimes against people or property, certain drug offenses, weapons violations, or crimes carrying a hate‑crime aggravating circumstance. Violators could face criminal charges under Italian law.

A Broader Push for Safety

The red‑zone measure is part of a wider effort by Rome’s security forces to protect residents and the surge of visitors drawn to the city’s historic attractions. The order follows a proposal from the city’s police chief and discussions by the Provincial Committee for Public Order and Security. Police have already been employing ordinary patrols, surveillance systems, fixed security posts and joint “High Impact” operations, but have struggled to fully stop repeated criminal conduct.

In addition to the new red zone, Rome has extended a separate security perimeter in the Esquilino district surrounding the main Termini train station and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where Pope Francis is buried. Demonstrations around Termini and the influx of pilgrims to Santa Maria Maggiore have continued to demand close attention, as large crowds can become targets for predatory crimes. An earlier enhanced‑control zone covering the Valle Aurelia area, including the Battistini and Cornelia subway stations, was discontinued after authorities determined it was no longer needed.

Looking Ahead

With the red‑zone order in place until Christmas Eve, Rome’s authorities intend to restore public spaces for both residents and tourists. The prefect’s statement notes that the city is confronting “an unusually complex security situation” due to major international events, heightened geopolitical threats and the ongoing influx of visitors. As Rome’s iconic streets go back to bustling tourist traffic, the city will be closely watching whether the new measures can quell the disorder that has plagued its ancient heart.