Venice to ban loudspeakers, large tourist groups to address overtourism

Venice, the "city of canals," is slated to ban loudspeakers and restrict tour groups to no more than 25 individuals to lessen the negative effects of mass tourism in the Italian city.

The BBC, citing a statement from the city's administration, reported that these new laws, which are set to go into effect in June, are intended to address concerns of confusion and disturbances created by loudspeakers.

Venice, a popular European tourist destination, previously implemented a trial for a fine of around €5 for daily visitors to address overtourism.

According to Elisabetta Pesce, who holds responsibility for the city's security, the recent measures aim to improve the management of organised groups in the historical centre.

The Italian National Statistics Institute states that despite its modest size of 7.6 square kilometres, Venice welcomed nearly 13 million tourists in 2019, NDTV reported.

Venice residents are considering relocation due to tourist overload, with citizen associations monitoring bed availability for both tourists and locals.

In July, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) experts proposed adding Venice to the list of endangered world heritage sites due to climate change and mass tourism.

Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano highlighted recognition for efforts to address issues, such as implementing an anti-flooding system and approving an entry fee for tourists, but Venice was not added to the list.

Previously, in 2021, the historic centre of Venice was closed to big cruise ships in 2021 due to pollution worries and possible harm to the city's foundations from a ship accident in the Giudecca canal.