Environmental activists colored the basin of Rome's famous Trevi Fountain black on Sunday, saying the death of 14 people in floods that devastated northeastern Italy was a "warning" of climate change.
The activists of the organization Last Generation (The Last Generation) which multiplies the actions to denounce the inaction of governments in the face of climatic upheavals, climbed into the fountain and poured a black vegetable-based liquid into the water before out, escorted by the police.
"Our country is dying!", shouted the activists, to the applause or the boos of the tourists massed around the emblematic fountain.
Police confiscated protesters' banners denouncing government-subsidized fossil fuels.
More than 36,000 people have been displaced following the floods affecting the Emilia-Romagna region. The equivalent of six months of rain fell in 36 hours this week in Emilia-Romagna, causing the "floods of the century" in this rich agricultural and tourist region.
Mattia, 19, who did not wish to give her last name, took part in this action "because the terrible tragedy that has occurred in recent days in Emilia-Romagna is a warning foreshadowing the black future that awaits humanity".
Last Generation relies on a report by the Italian central bank which established in May that 23% of homes in Italy were at risk of flooding, representing a potential cost of three billion euros per year.
The organization claimed that the liquid used did not damage the fountain.
But Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri said cleaning would require "time, effort and water" because the fountain operated with a "water recirculation" device.
"We have to empty it, and throw 300,000 liters of water," he said.
Last Generation began taking action in Italy in 2022 ahead of the general election to call on leaders from all political parties to prioritize the climate emergency.
Last Generation activists have multiplied actions across Europe, including throwing soup, mashed potatoes or washable paint on the windows protecting famous paintings exhibited in major museums or on heritage sites cultural.
The Trevi Fountain is particularly famous thanks to an anthology scene from the film "La Dolce Vita" by Federico Fellini which shows the Swedish actress Anita Ekberg bathing there in evening dress.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Emilia-Romagna on Sunday to visit the places ravaged by bad weather.
21/05/2023 18:18:18 - Rome (AFP) - © 2023 AFP
