Rome has added the Colosseum and nearby historic areas to a special security zone after incidents involving theft, violence and public disorder.
For travelers, the main thing to know is that the Colosseum remains open. The designation does not stop tourists from visiting. It gives police more powers to remove people whose behavior poses a threat to public safety.
Where is Rome’s new security zone?
The zone covers the Colosseum, Via dei Fori Imperiali and Colle Oppio, according to Italian news agency ANSA. Italian broadcaster Rai reports that it also extends through parts of the historic center around the Imperial Forums toward Piazza Venezia and the Campidoglio.
The order took effect on August 24, 2026 and is scheduled to last four months, through Christmas Eve.
What does a “red zone” mean?
“Red zone” might sound like somewhere you can’t go, but that isn’t what this designation means. Visitors can still enter the area and visit the Colosseum.
The rules allow police to order people out of certain public areas if they meet specific criteria and are behaving violently, making threats or persistently harassing others.
An earlier Rome Prefecture order explains how the city’s enhanced-protection zones work. It says the measures can apply to people who have been reported for certain offenses within the past five years and whose behavior poses a concrete risk to public safety.
If you’re walking between the Colosseum and Roman Forum, you may notice more police and more frequent checks.
Why Rome introduced the measures
The decision follows months of concern about crime and disturbances in the historic center. Authorities have cited theft, robbery, drug activity and violent or disruptive behavior in the areas covered by the measures.
One incident took place near the Colosseum on July 1. According to Rome police, officers responded to fireworks near Largo Gaetana Agnesi. A larger group then gathered as officers were checking several people’s identities.
More officers were called in, several people were detained, and one person was arrested on allegations that included violence and resisting a public official.
Police said daily patrols and additional security checks were already taking place around the Colosseum and Via dei Fori Imperiali. The area also had a permanent military presence under Italy’s Strade Sicure security operation.
Police checks also cover unauthorized vendors
On September 2, ANSA reported that local police were carrying out checks in Rome’s red zones, including around the Colosseum and Via dei Fori Imperiali.
Officers took action against unauthorized vendors selling to tourists, confiscating more than 200 items, including drinks and other goods.
Should travelers be concerned?
The new designation reflects problems authorities want to address. It isn’t, by itself, a warning for tourists to stay away, nor does it mean visitors can stop taking precautions.
Keep your phone and wallet secure, pay attention in crowds and be cautious if someone approaches you unexpectedly. Use established businesses when buying food, drinks or tours.
It’s easy to get distracted while taking photos or finding your way around a busy attraction. Keep an eye on your belongings while you’re doing either.
Other parts of Rome are covered too
Similar measures also cover Esquilino and San Lorenzo, including areas around Termini, Rome’s main railway station. Authorities have confirmed and expanded those zones, while revoking the previous designation for Valle Aurelia-Cornelia.
What this means for your visit
The designation itself doesn’t require you to change your plans to visit the Colosseum or Roman Forum. You may see more police, security checks and officers dealing with unauthorized vendors or disturbances.
The area remains open to visitors. If you’re heading there this fall, keep your usual city-travel precautions in mind and follow any instructions from officers on the ground.
