In brief
With the opening of a new underpass near the Vatican, Rome's city officials are excited about the forthcoming Catholic Jubilee that promises to draw millions of tourists. However, many locals are anxious about the impact on housing prices and the erosion of the city's character as the urban landscape transforms to accommodate visitors.
As Rome prepares for the anticipated arrival of 32 million pilgrims for the 2025 Roman Catholic Jubilee, the city is undergoing significant renovations aimed at enhancing infrastructure and accessibility. On December 24, 2024, the completion of a new underpass along the Tiber River was inaugurated, connecting pedestrians to the Vatican while alleviating previous traffic issues. The Jubilee, a major event that occurs every 25 years, has spurred city planners to implement numerous projects to refurbish Rome's historic sites and streets.Mayor Roberto Gualtieri celebrates the progress, claiming that the public works initiated are a "miracle," yet many locals express concerns about the sacrifices made in the name of tourism. For instance, some residents have faced severe repercussions, like medical student Martina Battista, who was evicted to allow her landlord to convert her apartment into a short-term rental for the influx of visitors. While city officials emphasize the potential for a greener and more inclusive Rome amid the Jubilee's preparations, there are growing worries that the rush of tourists could detrimentally affect the city's character and affordability. As construction continues, citizens are confronted with lengthy detours and frustrating traffic jams, leaving many feeling resentful of the changes occurring in their beloved city. As the Jubilee approaches, it remains critical to strike a balance between welcoming the world's pilgrims and preserving the cultural and historical essence that makes Rome unique. The coming months will test whether the city can effectively manage its transformation without losing its soul.
