Eternal City?
It seems Venice is not the only Italian city in peril. The landmarks that have made Rome famous are in a state of great disrepair: due to neglect, the elements, budget cuts and the very visitors that enjoy them.
Rome faces a unique set of archaeological issues because its exhibits are housed not under museum glass, but in a bustling city. Motor scooters, cars and brave pedestrians zip among its 2000-year-old arches and columns. Romans can stage archaeological digs in their gardens the way New Zealanders beach-comb.
Italy earns billions each year from its heritage, but its preservation budget has been slashed during the past five years. Traditionally, the responsibility for preservation rested with the papacy and wealthy dynasties. But today it lies with the government, and the public are blasé about their treasures.
Non-profit foundation CittaItalia launched a nationwide campaign in 2005 to raise funds and awareness, using pictures of a legless David, and a Leaning Tower-less Pisa. "Without your help, Italy could lose the very jewels that make the country unique in the world," read the provocative headline.
The Italian government has recently assessed hundreds of sites in Rome, to pinpoint the most urgent repairs. Much concern is focused on the Palatine Hill, including the Colosseum and The Golden Palace of Nero. Around NZ$300 million is needed to shore up the Palatine Hill alone. The Colosseum is a victim of its own fame - with maintenance of the amphitheatre a constant and Herculean effort.
Elsewhere in Italy, preservation and restoration proceeds on a smaller scale. The major concern of the Veronese may be Juliet's bronze breast wearing away, and its attendant lovers' graffiti. To alleviate the pressure of visitors in Pompeii, its governing body now issues tickets allowing tourists to also visit Herculaneum and Stabiae. And 22 hectares of Pompeii will remain unexcavated, to preserve them for future centuries. The Tower of Pisa was reopened after 12 years in 2001 - retaining its famous tilt, and estimated to be safe for another 300 years.
However, a recent earthquake in L'Aquila has sparked further debate about the future of many historic Italian buildings. The challenges with making them more resistant to earthquakes are complicated by Italy having the world's third-highest public debt and its worst recession since World War II.
So what is the answer? In our lead story we examine the balance between preservation and other considerations such as timing, budget, and future use. In Italy's historic buildings though, preservation must outweigh all other factors, or Rome at least may be heading for another fall.
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