Gualtieri’s Vision for Rome in 2025
Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, has set the stage for 2025 to be a transformative year for the Italian capital, debunking the narrative of chaos during the Vatican’s Jubilee Year. Speaking at Albergatore Day, an event for Rome’s hospitality and tourism sectors, Gualtieri emphasized that 2025 will be an ideal time to visit Rome.
Disputing claims of Rome being hindered by construction, dirt, and governance issues, the mayor defended the city’s efforts during the Jubilee, highlighting the record-breaking 22 million tourists welcomed last year as a testament to Rome’s capabilities. Gualtieri asserted that Rome is a well-organized, clean, and orderly European capital.
Building a Positive Image
Bernabò Bocca, president of the hotel association Federalberghi, stressed the need for investing in tourism during the Jubilee to showcase a positive image of Rome globally. He drew parallels with past Jubilees and emphasized the long-term benefits of a successful event.
Giuseppe Roscioli, president of Federalberghi Rome, expressed optimism for the upcoming months despite a slow start in 2025, citing anticipated Jubilee events in the spring. He acknowledged lower hotel occupancy rates compared to the previous year but attributed it to the timing and unique nature of Jubilee tourism.
Combatting Key Box Issues
Rome’s tourism councillor, Alessandro Onorato, led an initiative against key boxes used by tourists for short-term rentals. The city aims to remove these boxes from public and private spaces to uphold decorum and legality, urging the public to report key box locations.
According to estimates by Italy’s tourism ministry, the Jubilee 2025 is projected to attract 35 million arrivals and generate nearly €17 billion in expenditure for Rome, underscoring the economic potential of the event.
With a concerted effort to enhance Rome’s appeal and address tourism challenges, 2025 promises to be a significant year for the eternal city.