Italy holidaymakers warned of red zone around iconic landmark after crime surge | Travel News | Travel

The Italian city of Pisa, famed for its Leaning Tower, has declared a ‘red zone’ in a bid to combat soaring crime rates. The Provincial Committee for Public Order and Safety (Cosp) announced the establishment of the zone near the city’s railway station, an area frequented by international tourists.

Pisa authorities noted that the city’s airport “is the second station in Tuscany in terms of number of presences, registering an estimated transit of about 20 million travellers per year, concentrated mainly between the hours of 7 am and 6 pm”. The ‘red zone’ signifies an urban area with a high risk of crime, where aggressive or threatening behaviour could result in parking bans and individuals being ordered to leave.

Pisa, a popular holiday destination known for its iconic landmarks, is also unfortunately infamous for pickpocketing. With millions of visitors flocking to these historic sites annually, it’s no surprise that these crowded areas are prime targets for thieves.

This new measure aims to ensure the safety of public spaces within the area. It follows previous measures such as improved lighting and video surveillance.

The ‘red zone’ includes Piazza della Stazione, Via Mascagni, Via Puccini, Viale Bonaini and Viale Gramsci. The Square of Miracles, the site of the Leaning Tower, is a hotbed for pickpockets due to its high foot traffic, the Mirror reports. Other prime locations for theft include Pisa Centrale and Pisa San Rossore train stations, particularly when tourists are getting on or off trains.

These criminals often employ distraction tactics such as asking for directions, causing accidental collisions, or even using children to engage their targets. Some have been known to use small razors to cut open bags or purses.

Be wary of phony vendors and street performers who may use their act as a ruse to get close to your possessions. In 2022, Pisa reported approximately 2,151 thefts per 100,000 inhabitants, ranking it among the top ten Italian provinces for theft rates.

However, the actual number could be higher as many pickpocket incidents go unreported. Pisa, renowned for its architectural and historical treasures, is best known today for the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

This iconic edifice is part of the UNESCO-listed Piazza dei Miracoli, which also includes the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Camposanto Monumentale. With a rich history dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, Pisa boasts charming streets, a vibrant culture, and proximity to the Ligurian Sea, making it a top holiday destination.A