A collective mobilized in Florence to denounce overtourism symbolized by key boxes on buildings. From now on, all of Italy must apply the law: landlords must verify the identity of tenants in person.
Published on 04/12/2024 17:39
Reading time: 1min
Italy no longer wants key boxes for Airbnb tenants on its buildings. While the revolt against overtourism in the main cities is gaining momentum, the Ministry of the Interior wants to force owners to personally welcome their tenants.
The war started from Tuscany. Members of the “Save Florence” collective put red tape on these key boxes, symbols of overtourism. “ll y a environ 2 000 apartments in Florence in which, once you have the code, you can enter 20 or 25. In these conditions, every night is an adventure”explains its president, Massimo Torelli.
The Ministry of the Interior does not provide data on thefts or attacks in tourist accommodation, but the circular highlights the high risks of attacks at the moment and the 35 million people expected in Rome in 2025, a big year of pilgrimage.
The law says that landlords must verify the identity of tenants in person and transmit this data to the local police station. The circular published this week by the Ministry of the Interior is a firm reminder of this. In Florence, Mayor Sara Funaro decided to remove key boxes for a reason “aesthetic”. “It's not possible to leave your boxes hanging on the facades of historic buildings in the city.”justifies the chosen one.
This does not resolve the issues of buildings equipped with digital codes and the effective application of the law, even if the circular promises police checks. Italy has 640 000 furnished tourist accommodation.
Faced with overtourism, Italy bans key boxes from Airbnb rentals. Report by Bruno Duvic
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