Free COVID tests for unvaccinated museum visitors in Sicily and Pompeii spark debate

Beginning August 7, Italy's Green Pass requirement for cultural sites prompted major museums and archaeological locations in Sicily and Pompeii to provide complimentary rapid antigen tests for those unvaccinated. Notable sites included the Valley of the Temples, Archaeological Park of Giardini Naxos, Ancient Theatre of Taormina, Villa Romana del Casale, Neapolis Archaeological Park, Selinunte, Segesta, Galleria Regionale di Palazzo Abatellis, and Museo Archeologico Salinas. Between August 7 and 9, a total of 2,092 tests were conducted, resulting in 5 positive cases, with testing available until August 31. On August 6, Pompeii welcomed 6,890 visitors, with 319 tests carried out. Valentino Nizzo from Museo Nazionale Etrusco in Rome sought a free testing site but was unable to secure assistance, advising visitors to go to pharmacies instead.