Tourists planning a trip to Venice have been warned about a little-known law that could result in a fine of up to €500 (£438). The regulation, in place since 2008, prohibits the feeding of pigeons and other birds in the city, particularly in the famous Piazza San Marco.
The ban was introduced after complaints from residents and visitors about the excessive amount of bird droppings across the city. Despite this, many tourists still attempt to recreate the popular social media trend of taking photos surrounded by flocks of pigeons.
Simon Hood, Executive Director of relocation firm John Mason International, said: "Everyone's seen the photos of tourists covered in pigeons in the Piazza San Marco; it's become something of a Venetian tradition. But few know it's illegal to feed any pigeons in the square." He warned that both the vendor selling bird feed and the tourist using it could face fines.
With Italy preparing to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, authorities are expected to be even more vigilant. Hood advised holidaymakers to think twice before attempting to take such photographs, as the penalty could be costly.
