© Reuters / Remo Casilli
People wearing protective masks walk past the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, February 25, 2020.
Gripped by the deadly coronavirus, which has infected thousands nationwide - a figure which
now includes the head of its Piedmont region - Italy has shut down all of its cultural sites and iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum.
Those hoping to marvel at glorious reminders of the Roman Empire by visiting the Colosseum or walking among the ancient ruins of the Forum in central Rome won't be fulfilling their dreams any time soon. Those seeking to enjoy the masterpieces of the great Renaissance masters in Florence's Uffizi Gallery will have to shelve their plans for the time being, too.
In their latest move to curb the relentless spread of the novel coronavirus officially known as Covid-19, Italian authorities have decided to close all national cultural facilities, including the iconic landmarks that have made the nation famous throughout the world. The measure also spells bad news for local cinema-goers and theater-lovers, since these venues will now be closed too, according to Cultural Minister Dario Franceschini.
The official
called it a "necessary and tough choice" as he announced the decision in a Twitter post. He also urged the national TV channels to fill the void left by the abrupt - if temporary - ban on cultural life by broadcasting films, plays and music. All companies managing cultural sites should "make the most" of their websites and social network accounts, the minister suggested.
Comment: Just last week in London: Man stabbed in neck at London mosque during afternoon prayer