Europe protests spread to Rome’s Colosseum as demonstrators try to force entry

Italy’s wave of protests escalated when demonstrators forced their way into Rome’s iconic Colosseum, briefly entering the ancient amphitheatre before being escorted out by security staff, the Associated Press reported on Sunday, as thousands took to the streets across the country

The attempt to enter one of Rome’s most recognisable landmarks came as authorities tightened security around key public spaces, luxury shopping streets and tourist areas.

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In the capital, a separate anti-war march also witnessed brief clashes with police near Piazza della Repubblica, where officers used tear gas and a water cannon to disperse protesters, the report said.

Protests ripple across Europe

The demonstrations in Italy were part of a wider wave of unrest across Europe, with protesters raising concerns ranging from education and corruption to the cost of living, pensions and housing.

Rallies took place in Milan, Rome and Turin, while protests in Spain, Portugal and Albania also drew large crowds.

In Milan, thousands marched while Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government deployed an additional 500 soldiers, alongside hundreds already stationed in the city and around 5,000 police and other security personnel.

Several luxury boutiques boarded up their windows after stores were looted during the previous weekend’s unrest, although most reopened by Saturday afternoon, according to media reports.

Italian authorities also announced tougher penalties for minors after police said young people made up a significant share of those involved in the earlier violence.

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Police detained several minors in Milan as a preventive measure, Italian media reported.

Elsewhere, protests in Albania’s capital Tirana turned violent, with demonstrators setting government buildings on fire and throwing projectiles at police, the AP report added.

In Madrid, thousands marched over concerns about public pensions, while protesters in Lisbon demanded affordable housing and opposed proposed changes to rental rules.