Photos: Before and after coronavirus scare hit Rome's eternally packed tourist sites

A look at Rome, before virus fears spooked the public, and now, devoid of visitors

Published: March 12, 2020 12:04 AP and Compiled by Nathaniel Lacsina, Digital Content Producer

1 of 6

Rome: For years, Rome seemed to have only a high season for tourism given the Italian capital's eternal appeal with foreign visitors. Image Credit: AP

2 of 6

Tourists crowded around the monumental Trevi Fountain from January through December, jostling for a glimpse of the must-see landmark in a throng several deep. Travelers who managed to get close enough tossed a coin into the water, an act that, according to local legend, guaranteed a return trip to the city. Image Credit: AP

3 of 6

The coronavirus outbreak that has made Italy second to China in confirmed cases has emptied landmarks of tourists _ and Romans. Image Credit: AP

4 of 6

Photographs taken before and after the emergence of infection clusters in northern Italy spooked the public, canceled flights to Italy and brought nationwide restrictions on people's movements and interactions show once-packed places like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum now devoid of visitors. Image Credit: AP

5 of 6

Where a past view showed a gaggle of tourists perched on the steps in the center of the Pantheon's piazza, the current image captures one or two people sitting far apart. Image Credit: AP

6 of 6

Now, you can look at the Castel Sant'Angelo in all its imposing majesty when crossing the bridge and not see a soul. Image Credit: AP

Photos News

Photos: Before and after coronavirus scare hit Rome's eternally packed tourist sites

More From Photos

Putin orders tactical nuclear weapon drills to deter the West

Macron presses China’s Xi to halt Ukraine war, agree fair trade

No place to pray for Muslim workers in this Italian city of Monfalcone

Teenager turns self in after attack on German politician

GULFNEWS SECTIONS

Trending

Photos: Before and after coronavirus scare hit Rome's eternally packed tourist sites

More From Photos

Putin orders tactical nuclear weapon drills to deter the West

Macron presses China’s Xi to halt Ukraine war, agree fair trade

No place to pray for Muslim workers in this Italian city of Monfalcone

Teenager turns self in after attack on German politician

GULFNEWS SECTIONS