The Italian Culture Ministry has implemented a new ticketing system for the Pantheon, one of Rome’s most iconic tourist attractions. Visitors will now be required to purchase a 5-euro entrance ticket to access the 2,000-year-old monument.
Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano initially announced the introduction of the entrance fee in March, stating that charging a modest fee would contribute to the preservation of the highly visited site, which is also the final resting place of renowned painter Raphael. Sangiuliano deemed the fee to be a reasonable approach to protect the historic monument.
However, the implementation of the new ticketing system has faced challenges and confusion. Tourists have reported encountering perplexing instructions on where and how to purchase tickets, resulting in long queues under the scorching summer sun outside the Pantheon. According to the New York Times, some visitors mistakenly purchased audio tours for €10 on the official Pantheon website, only to discover later that the booking did not include the newly introduced entrance fee. The fee can be obtained through a different Culture Ministry site or directly at the monument. Furthermore, some foreign credit cards have been declined on the online booking platform. This situation raises concerns about the potential emergence of a ticket black market, similar to the issue faced by visitors to another popular landmark, the Colosseum. Scalpers buy tickets in bulk and resell them at exorbitant prices, often as part of packaged tours. Last year, Alfonsina Russo, the director of the Archaeological Park of the Colosseum, filed a complaint with Italian police regarding the ticketing scheme.
The Culture Ministry has stated that the new ticketing platform for the Pantheon will be extended to other state landmarks and museums in the coming months. Meanwhile, the ministry, along with monument authorities, is working to ensure that entrance tickets remain accessible and reasonably priced, according to a statement by the minister.
The introduction of an entrance fee for the Pantheon aims to support the preservation and maintenance of the historic site. However, the challenges encountered with the new ticketing system underscore the importance of efficient implementation and clear communication to ensure a smooth visitor experience. As the government and monument authorities address the issues raised, visitors can expect improvements in accessibility and pricing to enhance their exploration of Italy’s cultural treasures.
