Rome banned the construction of a McDonald's restaurant near the ancient monument

Rome – The Italian Minister of Culture has prohibited the fast-food chain McDonald’s from building one of its restaurants near the Caracalla Baths in the ancient district in the center of the capital. The mayor of the Italian metropolis, Virginia Raggi, supported the decision, stating that "the wonders of Rome must be protected." McDonald’s has not yet commented on the move. This was reported today by the Reuters agency.

According to Italian media, the new restaurant was supposed to be 800 m² and was to be built on the site of a former gardening center. The land located in immediate proximity to the 3rd-century baths is also very close to the Aurelian Walls and a few hundred meters from the Colosseum and the ancient arena Circus Maximus.

In this landmark zone of Rome, very strict rules apply regarding the construction of new buildings, which must meet a number of criteria to respect the historical tradition of the area.

The American chain already has over 40 restaurants in Rome, some of which are near landmarks such as Piazza Navona, Piazza di Spagna, where the famous Spanish Steps are located, or near the Vatican. However, none are currently right next to the ancient ruins.

In 1986, a number of intellectuals and television personalities unsuccessfully fought against the opening of the first McDonald’s restaurant near the Spanish Steps. Many at the time claimed that the food at the American chain was an insult to Italian culinary culture.

According to the website statist.com, last year there were 578 McDonald’s restaurants in Italy. This is the fourth highest number in the European Union, with only Germany, France, and the United Kingdom having more of these restaurants.