Italians demand tougher punishment after tourist jumps into Trevi Fountain

A tourist has sparked anger in Italy after jumping into Rome’s historic Trevi Fountain for a swim, prompting renewed calls for tougher punishment against visitors who disrespect the country’s landmarks.

The tourist, a 30-year-old man from New Zealand, was seen entering the world-famous fountain while still wearing his clothes. He floated in the water for a few seconds before standing up and walking across the fountain’s floor.

He then plunged into the water again and began performing a relaxed backstroke, despite the presence of police officers around the monument. According to reports, the man ignored repeated demands from Rome police to get out of the water.

He was eventually removed from the fountain and later fined €500, around £436. However, many Italians reacted with frustration, saying the penalty was far too low for such behavior at one of Rome’s most famous historic sites.

One social media user wrote: “€500 is small change. If it were €5,000 they would think about it for a while.” Another said, “They think they can do anything they want in Italy. The fine should be €5,000.” A third added: “Immediate arrest and release on bail. If you don’t pay, you shouldn’t get out.”

The Trevi Fountain, completed in the 18th century after around 30 years of construction, is one of Rome’s most visited attractions. Millions of tourists gather there each year to admire the Baroque monument and take part in the tradition of tossing coins into its waters.

However, the landmark has also repeatedly become the scene of public nuisance incidents, with tourists ignoring strict rules banning entry to the fountain.

Last year, another tourist was escorted away by Italian police after jumping into the Trevi Fountain in front of hundreds of visitors. The man, wearing a blue T-shirt and white shorts, leaped into the 264-year-old fountain despite the clear restrictions.

He was helped out by an onlooker before a police officer intervened as he attempted to leave the area. The incident was filmed by 18-year-old Lukas Vöhser Falcón from San Agustín, Gran Canaria, who was visiting Rome during a European trip with friends.

“Our last stops were Rome and the Amalfi Coast,” he said. “I was recording a video of the fountain and I saw the man jump in.” “I think he just did it for fun – but five seconds later the police came and took him.”

“I don’t know where – I guess he went to the station. Everyone was so surprised when it happened.” The latest incident has once again fueled debate over tourist behavior in Italy and whether heavier fines are needed to protect historic monuments.