Sitting on the Spanish Steps in Rome can lead to hefty fine

The iconic Spanish Steps in Rome is a place where many tourists like to sit, but not anymore. New tourist rules in Rome has put a ban on sitting on the Spanish steps. Located between the Piazza di Spagna, Piazza Trinita dei Monti, it was built between 1723-1725, and has a total of 174 steps.
The latest rule is one of the many in a string of rules set up by Rome authorities recently. They are trying to guarantee decorum on the streets of Rome, which came into effect from July this year. Police officers are already in place, patrolling with their prying eyes, ready to catch you off guard.
The Spanish steps have long been the place where tourists sit down to take some rest, or even just to check out their itinerary. It is a landmark of the city, and is always crowded with people. The Spanish Steps was prominently featured in the iconic film Roman Holiday, featuring Audrey Hepburn, and Gregory Peck. It also features in literature, most notably, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Tender is the Night (1977).

The Steps underwent renovation in 2016 when $1.7 million was spent in restoration. The restoration project was funded by Italian luxury brand, Bulgari. The Steps was in bad shape from wear and tear over the years, filled with cigarette butts, chewing gum, and stains from drinks such as coffee or wine. So now if you decide not to abide by the rules, and plan to sit down on the Spanish Steps, you might have to pay up $447 in fine.