Italian cultural sites lack basic accessibility, report reveals

A 2022 report from Italy's Ministry of Culture, released on December 18, 2025, shows that many cultural sites in Italy are not physically accessible. Among non-state museums, monuments, and archaeological areas, 32% lack accessible toilets for people with disabilities. Over a third of surveyed sites lack ramps, wedges, slides, elevators, or lifting platforms for wheelchair users. Only 10% of non-state sites and 20% of state sites offer visit programs for people with cognitive disabilities. Similarly, only 10% of non-state and 30% of state sites have tactile paths, raised-relief maps, or braille catalogs. The report, curated by the Ministry's School of National Heritage and Cultural Activities, highlights that basic accommodations like braille panels are inexpensive and easy to install, suggesting a lack of attention rather than financial or structural barriers. Stefano Monti, partner at Monti&Taft, authored the piece, noting that while some physical adaptations may be impossible due to conservation needs, many shortcomings are inexcusable.