Pompeii Limits Visitors to 20,000 Amidst Over-Tourism Crisis

The Pompeii archaeological park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is set to enforce a daily visitor cap of 20,000 starting November 15, 2024. This decision comes after a record summer where over 4 million people visited the ancient city, which was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Authorities are concerned that the high visitor frequency is threatening both the safety of tourists and the integrity of the fragile archaeological remains. Personalized tickets will be issued with visitors' names to manage entry and discourage over-crowding. Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the park’s director, emphasized the importance of creating a sustainable tourism experience that preserves the site while alleviating pressure on it. To further promote this, the park management is encouraging tourists to explore nearby sites connected to Pompeii through a free shuttle service, part of the 'Greater Pompeii' project. This initiative aims to distribute tourist activity across the area and highlight the rich cultural heritage surrounding Pompeii. These measures reflect an increasing global awareness of the impact of mass tourism and a commitment towards more responsible travel practices. The park's management seeks to avoid a future situation where the site's historical significance is compromised by excessive daily visitors. Overall, the goal is to foster a more enjoyable and sustainable tourist experience in one of Italy's most iconic locations.