Rome under quarantine: A diary in times of coronavirus
Italy's emergency measures to contain the coronavirus have paralyzed public life in Rome. The quarantine will last until at least April 3. Simone Alliva reports on the atmosphere in the Italian capital.
St Peter's under quarantine
A holy silence lies over St. Peter's Square. On one of the largest squares in the world, at the foot of St. Peter's Basilica, there is nothing but silence today.
Usually, flags wave here, fathers carry their children on their shoulders, and groups of nuns try to get as close as possible to the sacred place. On Sundays, the square is normally crowded: No matter the weather, up to 300,000 people try to catch a glimpse of Pope Francis during mass. They want to take with them an unforgettable memory that seems to come from another, very distant time.
The large screens on the square, which normally broadcast the Angelus Prayer on Sundays, are turned off. The broadcasts have been postponed until after Easter, as all events that would lead to large gatherings have been banned by the government. Only very few tourists — all wearing face masks — stop for a photo of the imposing St. Peter's Square.
An empty St. Peter's Square
Altogether, there are 10 people there at 1:00 pm — on a square where otherwise more than 300,000 people gather. Only policemen patrol. The Carabinieri stop people who should not be on the road and impose fines. You risk a prison sentence of up to three months or a fine of up to €206 ($226) if you are outside without permission.
