Agitators storm Rome’s Colosseum as violent protests sweep across Italy

A group of masked demonstrators attempted to storm Rome’s Colosseum on Saturday, forcing tourists to move out of the way as guards worked to stop the protesters from entering the historic landmark. The incident comes amid a wave of violent demonstrations across Italy and Europe as a whole.

Violent unrest has erupted in several Italian cities, including Turin, Rome, and Bologna, where demonstrators have clashed with law enforcement. Protests have also taken place in Milan, prompting authorities to deploy additional security forces.

On Saturday, thousands of young people marched through Milan as businesses boarded up their storefronts in anticipation of unrest. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced additional security measures, including the deployment of 500 additional soldiers and tougher penalties for minors involved in violent incidents.

In Rome, a group of masked protesters attempted to enter the Colosseum. They were ultimately stopped by guards.

Media reports have linked the demonstrations to frustrations over the rising cost of living. Similar protests across France and other European countries have also drawn attention for a range of issues, including anti-war sentiment, education reforms, and economic pressures. However, protests have included outright vandalism of businesses, and many of the perpetrators are believed to be of migrant descent.

Milan police said that last week’s looting and violent demonstrations involved roughly 2,000 young protesters. Police said many of those involved were "naturalized, second-generation Italians," alongside foreign nationals. 45 arrests were made, 34 of which were minors.

"I think the images from last week were truly something terrible, especially for the young people, for the students, for the vast majority of the younger generations who want to study ... and do not accept being represented by those who use issues and needs to devastate entire cities," said Riccardo Ponzio, national president of an Italian right-wing student association, according to the Associated Press.