The government of the City of Rome announced today, Saturday, measures to combat a rat invasion near the Colosseum after several tourists posted photos on social media of these rodents roaming in areas close to the historic amphitheater. Sabrina Alfonzi, head of the city’s waste collection agency, told the "Adenkronos" news agency that a "special intervention" began last night and will continue this morning to ensure that people can pass safely at one of Italy's most popular tourist sites.
The city government stated in a press release that the operation will continue this week, as the green areas surrounding the Colosseum and the sewers where rats are commonly found will be cleaned and traps will be set. The statement noted that there are about seven million rats in the city, which equals 2.5 rats for each resident. Alfonzi explained that the rise in tourist numbers this summer, alongside a heatwave, has led to an increase in trash, resulting in the spread of rodents.
The city council shared photos of cleaners collecting piles of plastic water bottles, drink cans, and other waste. Rome has been facing a mounting garbage crisis for years, with heaps of waste often found in the streets next to overflowing trash bins. The Colosseum was built almost 2000 years ago and is the largest amphitheater in the Roman Empire, used for hosting gladiatorial battles, executions, and animal hunts.
