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Italy proposes national ban on horse-drawn tourist carriages

Created at 29 Jul · 5:41 PM1 source↑ Market-relevant
IN SHORT

A bill introduced in Italy's Chamber of Deputies seeks to ban horse-drawn tourist carriages, known as 'botticelle,' in cities like Rome. Proponents argue current streets are unsuitable for animal welfare and extreme heat poses risks.

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Key Numbers

2026year of proposed ban implementation

Who's Involved

Patrizia Prestipino
PD MP and animal welfare guarantor for Roma Capitale, supporting the bill
Francesco Emilio Borrelli
Avs MP, co-promoter of the bill
Sergio Costa
M5S MP, co-promoter of the bill
Rocco Ferraro
Roma Capitale Councillor supporting the bill
Amore A Quattro Zampe
Environmental association promoting the initiative
Italy proposes national ban on horse-drawn tourist carriages

↳ Why This Matters

The proposed ban reflects a growing global trend towards prioritizing animal welfare and modernizing urban tourism practices, potentially impacting the traditional carriage industry in historic European cities.

Key facts

  • A bill has been introduced in Italy's Chamber of Deputies to ban horse-drawn tourist carriages.
  • The proposed ban targets 'botticelle,' commonly used in Rome and other tourist cities.
  • The legislation aims to repeal existing regulations that permit animal-drawn vehicles for public hire.
  • Animal welfare and suitability of city streets for horses are cited as primary concerns.
  • Extreme heat conditions are also highlighted as a reason to ban the practice.

    • Italy's Chamber of Deputies has received a bill that, if passed, would implement a national ban on horse-drawn tourist carriages, known as 'botticelle,' particularly in major cities like Rome. The proposed legislation, supported by the Democratic Party (PD), Alleanza Verdi e Sinistra (Avs), and the Five Star Movement (M5S), seeks to repeal Article 70 of the Highway Code, which currently regulates the circulation of such vehicles.

    The bill's proponents argue that modern city streets are not suitable for the welfare of horses and that extreme weather conditions, such as the current heatwave, make it impossible for them to work safely. PD MP Patrizia Prestipino emphasized the need for a national law, stating that individual municipal ordinances restricting the hours and activities of botticelle are insufficient.

    An awareness campaign titled 'A piedi è più bello' (Walking is more beautiful) is set to be displayed in Rome's main tourist areas throughout August, promoting walking as an alternative. Rocco Ferraro, a Roma Capitale Councillor, has voiced his support for the bill, calling it a historic opportunity to end a practice he believes belongs to the past.

    Frequently asked questions

    'Botticelle' are traditional horse-drawn carriages used for public hire, primarily for tourist services in Italian cities like Rome.

    Proponents cite concerns about animal welfare on unsuitable city streets and the risks posed by extreme weather conditions, such as scorching asphalt temperatures.

    The bill is promoted by the Democratic Party (PD), Alleanza Verdi e Sinistra (Avs), and the Five Star Movement (M5S).

    What Happens Next

    01The bill must be passed by the Chamber of Deputies.
    02The bill will then proceed to the Senate for further consideration.

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    Cadence

    How It Developed

    A bill was introduced in Italy's Chamber of Deputies to ban horse-drawn tourist carriages.
    The proposed legislation aims to repeal article 70 of the Highway Code, which regulates animal-drawn vehicles.
    The bill seeks to explicitly prohibit the use of animals for public hire, non-scheduled transport, and tourist services.
    Supporters cite concerns about animal welfare on modern city streets and extreme temperatures.
    An awareness campaign promoting walking over carriage rides is planned for Rome.
    A Rome councillor expressed support for the bill, calling it a historic opportunity.

    Sources

    T1
    Italy moves to ban horse-drawn tourist carriages in Rome and other art citiesEuronews

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