3/30/2018

Event: Easter Holiday Weekend Celebrations

5:00pm, March 30 – Saint Peter’s Basilica

via Crucis (Stations of the Cross)

9:30pm, March 30 – Colosseum

Holy Saturday Veglia Pasquale Mass (Easter Vigil Mass)

8:30pm, March 31 – Saint Peter’s Basilica

10:00am, April 1 – Saint Peter’s Square

Thousands of participants are expected to join each of the multiple events planned for the Easter holiday weekend in Rome. Given the large crowds, Italian Law Enforcement is taking special security measures to ensure all events are safe and orderly for the public. These measures will include street closures and security checkpoints ( see maps below ) which will include the use of metal detectors and the inspection of personal items. Additional law enforcement officers will be present and visible throughout the weekend’s events.

Tri-Mission personnel are reminded to pay attention to their surroundings and practice good situational awareness. The crowded tourist venues found all over Rome are prime targets for pickpockets and criminals. Staying alert and mindful of your possessions and personal space will significantly decrease your chances of becoming a victim. We recommend you remain alert and exercise caution if in the vicinity of large gatherings, keep a low profile, and monitor local media for any updates. 

Assistance:

U.S. Embassy Rome, Italy
+39 06 46741 (24/7)
USCitizensRome@state.gov
https://it.usembassy.gov/

State Department – Consular Affairs 

888407-4747 or 202 501 4444

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates

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Subscribers are reminded that on 3/25, AlertsUSA warned that intelligence provided to Italian authorities by the Tunisian government indicates the individual below, Mathlouthi Atef, age 44, is a member of the Islamic State (Daesh), is known to be Italy, and is believed to be planning an attack in Rome during Easter celebrations.

Despite a nationwide manhunt, Atef remains at large.

AlertsUSA subscribers in Italy during the Easter celebration period should be operating with a high level of personal security awareness and vigilance.