An early morning mishap in the heart of Rome left locals stunned — and Italy’s fire brigade with a unique rescue job.

An 80-year-old man accidentally drove his Mercedes-Benz A-Class halfway down the iconic Spanish Steps around 4 a.m. Tuesday, prompting a swift response from police and firefighters.

“I Was Wrong,” Says Driver After Staircase Blunder

According to Italian media, the driver told police he was “going to work” and had simply taken a wrong turn. While he wasn’t injured, he was taken to the hospital as a precaution. Police later confirmed he tested negative for drugs and alcohol, and that he held a valid driver’s license.

It remains unclear whether he was using GPS at the time of the incident.

A Delicate Rescue on Historic Ground

Firefighters arrived at the scene shortly after police stopped the vehicle. To remove the car safely from the 18th-century staircase, the fire department deployed a crane from the base of the steps. Photos show some damage to the vehicle, though it’s not confirmed if it resulted from the incident.

The Spanish Steps have since been closed to the public while archaeologists inspect the site for possible damage, as is standard protocol when incidents occur involving Rome’s historic landmarks.

Age and the Rules of the Road

Under Italian law, drivers over 80 must renew their license every two years and pass a medical exam, which includes basic cognitive assessments. The unnamed man was reportedly in compliance with these requirements.

Not the First Time the Steps Took a Hit

This isn’t the first vehicular blunder on the Spanish Steps:

• In 2022, a Saudi tourist drove a Maserati down the same staircase and was charged with aggravated damage to cultural heritage after fracturing two of the steps.
• That same year, two American tourists were fined and briefly banned from Rome’s city center after damaging the steps with electric scooters.

A Cinematic and Cultural Treasure

The Spanish Steps — named after the nearby Spanish Embassy to the Holy See — are among Rome’s most beloved landmarks. Featured in the classic film Roman Holiday (1953) starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, the staircase underwent a major €1.5 million ($1.7 million) restoration in 2015.

What’s Next?

As of now, officials are waiting for the results of the archaeological inspection to determine whether the landmark suffered any structural harm. Meanwhile, the man’s wrong turn has sparked renewed calls for tighter vehicle access restrictions near historic sites — and a reminder of how fragile these cultural icons really are.

Source:  CNN – Elderly man drives down Rome’s Spanish Steps and gets stuck

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Italy’s iconic tourist spots like Rome, Florence, and Venice can be overwhelming, especially during peak seasons. If you’re looking to avoid the masses, skip the skyrocketing prices of places like Capri or Tuscany, and discover a more authentic side of Italy, you’re in luck.

The country offers countless hidden gems, where time stands still and crowds are scarce. While these destinations might require a bit more effort to reach, the rewards are well worth it: a chance to experience Italy’s true spirit, with traditions and lifestyles that have remained untouched for centuries.

Here are some of the best off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore:

1. Lake Posta Fibreno (Lazio)

Tucked away in the isolated region of Ciociaria, just south of Rome, Lake Posta Fibreno offers a serene escape from the usual tourist trails. This tiny hamlet, nestled between Lazio and Campania, feels like stepping into another world, where time slows down and nature reigns supreme.

The lake, surrounded by fields of grazing sheep, is dotted with water lilies and framed by ancient trees that dip their branches into the sparkling waters. Paddle boats and dinghies are available for rent, allowing visitors to explore the tranquil lake or simply relax on the grass by the shore. With its quaint farmhouses and cozy taverns, it’s an ideal spot for mingling with locals and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

2. San Candido (Trentino-Alto Adige/Süd Tirol)

Located on the border between Italy and Austria, San Candido is a picturesque Alpine village that feels far removed from the rest of Italy. Here, you’ll find narrow cobbled streets, colorful frescoed cottages, and a rich cultural blend of Italian and Austrian influences.

Known for its skiing, the town was once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and its residents still take pride in their Teutonic heritage. Local folklore tells of giants, warriors, and magical creatures who adorned the nearby Dolomites with pink crystals. The town’s museum displays ancient dinosaur fossils, reminding visitors of the area’s fascinating prehistoric past.

3. Calcata (Lazio)

Perched dramatically atop a steep cliff in Lazio, Calcata is a hidden gem that has been inhabited since prehistoric times. This small, car-free hamlet is a labyrinth of moss-covered alleys and stone tunnels, overlooking a lush canyon below. Calcata has long been a haven for artists and hippies, and its laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal retreat from the busy life of Rome, just an hour’s drive away.

The village’s striking location, perched on the edge of a precipice, offers breathtaking views of the valley below, where ancient pagan tribes once performed rituals. Wander through its narrow streets, visit the quirky shops, or simply enjoy the tranquility of this almost-forgotten place.

4. Mount Circeo (Lazio)

Between Rome and Naples, Mount Circeo rises as a natural wonder, surrounded by pristine beaches, lakes, and fertile land. The mountain is steeped in myth, said to be the location where the sorceress Circe bewitched Odysseus in Homer’s Odyssey.

Today, the area is a protected natural reserve perfect for trekking, canoeing, and snorkeling. While ancient Romans frequented the area for its lavish villas and thermal baths, the mountain is also known for its striking shape, resembling a sleeping woman. Locals humorously claim that the surrounding forests are home to wild boars—adding an element of folklore to an already enchanting place.

5. Pentedattilo (Calabria)

Nestled in the heart of Calabria, Pentedattilo is a fascinating ghost town, clinging to the slopes of Mount Calvario. The mountain’s unique shape, resembling a giant hand with five fingers reaching into the sky, gives the village its name—Pentedattilo, which means “five fingers” in Greek.

Once a bustling village, Pentedattilo was abandoned after a series of earthquakes in the 1970s. Today, remnants of the old stone dwellings remain, while new life has begun to emerge thanks to a revitalization effort led by local youth groups. Artists, yoga enthusiasts, and a small community of residents, along with plenty of cats, have breathed new life into the abandoned town. In summer, art festivals and small businesses bring the village back to life, offering a unique glimpse into Italy’s hidden history.

Conclusion

Italy is so much more than its famous cities and tourist hotspots. These hidden destinations offer an opportunity to explore the authentic heart of the country, where traditions are still alive, and the crowds are nowhere to be found. From serene lakes and Alpine villages to ancient cliffside hamlets and ghost towns, these lesser-known treasures are waiting to be discovered by the curious traveler. So, take a detour from the usual itinerary and uncover a side of Italy that feels like it hasn’t changed in centuries.

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In 1947, the town of Gorizia was split between Italy and Slovenia, leaving its two parts divided for decades. But in 2025, the two cities will reunite as the first transnational European Capital of Culture, an unprecedented celebration of shared heritage and cross-border cooperation.

Standing in Nova Gorica, Slovenia, a modernist town with a population of 30,000, I’m just a few steps from the invisible border that separates it from Italy’s medieval Gorizia. I don’t need a passport to cross into the Italian side, but I do step into a new world.

Once, these towns were one. In 1947, after World War II, the Treaty of Paris drew new borders in Europe, and the town was divided along the Isonzo River. Gorizia was allocated to Italy, and the area on the opposite side became part of Yugoslavia, later evolving into Nova Gorica. From then on, they lived as two separate towns, split by borders and political systems.

But when Slovenia joined the European Union in 2004, the once-restrictive border became just a line on a map. The new openness sparked a cultural exchange that, by 2025, will culminate in their co-hosting of the European Capital of Culture under the banner GO!2025.

This award, which attracts millions of visitors each year, will see between 2 and 5 million tourists flocking to the region in 2025, a sharp increase from the usual 250,000 annual visitors. The towns, historically overlooked, are now preparing for an influx of travelers, drawing attention to their unique charm and history. To celebrate, a packed schedule of cultural events, from music and dance performances to art exhibits, will showcase the vibrant cultural fusion of these twin towns.

Two Towns, One Spirit

Despite sharing a history, Gorizia and Nova Gorica offer contrasting atmospheres. Gorizia, with its medieval cobblestone streets, lively cafes, and imposing castle, feels like a step back in time. The castle houses a museum filled with interactive exhibits that bring its rich history to life.

In stark contrast, Nova Gorica—designed in the Modernist style—bears the imprint of post-war Yugoslav ambition. Its concrete architecture and carefully planned streets tell the story of a town built to showcase the possibilities of a new political and cultural reality. While unassuming at first glance, Nova Gorica surprises with hidden gardens, crumbling palaces, and faded murals—reminders of the city’s turbulent past.

Though unglamorous at first, Nova Gorica’s understated beauty makes it a place worth exploring. And with the spotlight of the European Capital of Culture, it is poised to captivate millions of visitors, just as it did me.

A Transnational Capital of Culture

The European Capital of Culture designation is awarded by the EU to two towns each year, and 2025 will see Gorizia and Nova Gorica make history as the first transnational recipients. The joint bid, which promotes the idea of a “borderless” cultural exchange, is symbolic of Europe’s evolving understanding of borders and national identity. With two cultures and languages—Slovenian and Italian—interwoven in daily life, the towns are a living example of cross-border cooperation.

Administratively, Gorizia and Nova Gorica remain distinct, but in practice, the border feels more like a concept than a reality. People speak both languages, and locals freely cross back and forth. Some, like Tomaž Gržeta, a Slovenian music journalist, choose to live on one side and work on the other, a testament to the seamless integration of these two towns.

While there are no checkpoints to cross the border, one of the most iconic spots for tourists is Piazza Transalpina. Straddling both countries, this cultural hub allows visitors to stand in two places at once—half in Italy, half in Slovenia. As part of the GO!2025 program, the square has been transformed into a vibrant cultural space featuring an underground art gallery, amphitheater-style seating, and performance areas, all celebrating the shared heritage of these two towns.

A Rich and Complicated History

Gorizia and Nova Gorica’s borderless identity is rooted in a complex history. Over the centuries, the region passed through various political hands: the Habsburgs, Napoleon, Austria-Hungary, the Kingdom of Italy, Yugoslavia, and now Italy and Slovenia.

Local tour guide Evelin Bizjak offers a personal reflection of the region’s shifting borders: “My grandma was born in Austria-Hungary. My father was born in the Kingdom of Italy. I was born in Yugoslavia. If I had kids, they’d be born in Slovenia.” The fluidity of identity and the historical layers of this area are embodied in local landmarks, like the Slovenian Smuggling Museum and its Italian counterpart, the Lasciapassare Museum. These museums offer a glimpse into life along the border, showcasing the smuggling culture that arose when strict travel restrictions were imposed.

In the mid-20th century, when the border was drawn, families had just two months to decide whether they wanted to be Yugoslav or Italian. Those who chose to live under Yugoslavia’s rule helped build Nova Gorica from a cluster of houses into a planned town. While architect Edvard Ravnikar’s modernist vision shaped part of the town, much of it was built according to practical needs rather than aesthetic ideals, leaving Nova Gorica with a somewhat unfinished feel.

A Cultural Crossroads

My visit ends at Kostanjevica, a 16th-century Franciscan church overlooking both towns. The church, nearly destroyed in World War I, was lovingly restored and houses the tombs of French king Charles X and his family. It’s a striking reminder of the area’s rich cultural tapestry—where French royalty rests among Slovenian and Italian landmarks, and where centuries of history converge.

From Kostanjevica, I can see both Gorizia and Nova Gorica, situated between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. This is where two cultures meet and thrive, where borders blur and coexistence thrives. As the first transnational European Capital of Culture, GO!2025 is an opportunity to explore and celebrate a truly unique European region—a place where history, culture, and the spirit of collaboration create something extraordinary.

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In the shadow of Venice’s iconic Rialto Bridge, Monica Poli, a 58-year-old Venetian, stands as a self-proclaimed guardian against pickpockets. Armed with a powerful voice and a dedication to protecting tourists, she patrols the city’s crowded streets, shouting her signature warning: “Attenzione, pickpocket!”

Her alerts—delivered in Italian, English, and Spanish—stop people in their tracks. Tourists thank her with gratitude, and some even ask for photos. Alessandro Lavardato, one of her 605,000 Instagram followers, calls her work invaluable, saying, “These pickpockets are a real problem.” For many, Poli has become as much a part of Venice as its historic canals and art.

Social Media Fame and a Spiraling Crisis

Poli’s first viral video in June 2023 garnered 69 million views on TikTok. Since then, her trademark warning has been turned into dance tracks, memes, and even protest chants. Yet beneath the humor lies a serious issue: petty crime is on the rise in Italy, with Venice experiencing a 38.8% increase in thefts on trains in 2023 alone.

Tourists, who make up 78% of theft victims, are prime targets for pickpockets, especially since a 2022 judicial reform known as the Cartabia reform makes prosecuting petty crimes more difficult. Without a victim’s formal report or presence at trial, cases are often dismissed—something foreign visitors rarely have the time to follow through on.

As a result, Venice, with its 30 million annual tourists and fewer than 50,000 residents, has become a “gold mine” for pickpockets. Arrests have plummeted, with only two recorded in 2024 compared to 82 in 2019.

A Civic Mission Born from Experience

Poli’s crusade began in the 1990s while working in a store frequented by Japanese tourists, who often carried cash. Watching distraught visitors discover their wallets missing sparked her sense of civic duty. She joined Cittadini Non Distratti (“Undistracted Citizens”), a volunteer group dedicated to spotting and thwarting pickpockets.

Poli sees her mission as more than a hobby—it’s a deep commitment. Even while running errands, she’s ready to drop everything to pursue a suspect. “I believe if someone saw [a pickpocket] robbing my wallet, they’d do the same,” she says.

Risks and Reprisals

Poli’s efforts come at a personal cost. Since going viral, she has been pepper-sprayed, spat on, and physically attacked. Members of her group have faced similar threats, including knife intimidation. Despite this, she continues her work, warning victims and chasing suspects in what she calls her “watery Gotham City.”

Her detractors accuse her of racial profiling and question her methods. TikTok banned her accounts twice for showing the faces of alleged pickpockets. Poli defends her actions, arguing that her work protects the vulnerable, especially elderly victims, who often lose irreplaceable items like family photos.

Fighting Organized Crime

Poli insists that pickpocketing in Venice is not random but a well-organized criminal enterprise. Europol supports this claim, noting that many pickpockets belong to mobile, family-based networks operating across Europe. Poli has watched individuals grow into the trade over decades, reinforcing her belief that this is a systemic issue requiring attention.

Tips for Tourists

For visitors to Venice, Poli offers practical advice to avoid falling victim to pickpockets:

1. Use internal pockets for valuables.
2. Keep bags in front of you with a hand on them.
3. Attach cellphones to your bag or clothing with a cord.
4. Be vigilant when using ATMs or purchasing tickets to avoid revealing your PIN.
5. Avoid carrying anything in your back pockets.

“Everybody thinks they won’t be robbed,” she says, “but it happens. Losing your wallet means losing cards, cash, and often priceless memories.”

A Determined Guardian

Despite the risks and criticism, Poli remains steadfast. She carefully plans her public appearances, often accompanied by a companion for safety. “I’ve been threatened, attacked, and spat on,” she says, “but I’ll keep going as long as I can.”

Monica Poli may not wear a cape, but in Venice, she’s become an unlikely hero, standing up to organized crime with a fierce determination to protect her city and its visitors.

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