“Do you have your green pass?” The question was being put across Italy yesterday as new coronavirus (Covid-19) rules came into force – with those answering “no” left frustrated.
At the Vatican Museums, a number of tourists were turned away despite having pre-booked tickets, after failing to provide proof of a Covid-19 vaccine, previous infection, or a negative coronavirus test.
“We were looking forward to it, so we are kind of disappointed. But it is what it is,” said Tereza Poganyova, 20, with a friend from the Czech Republic.
However, she admitted having received an e-mail reminding her of the requirement, and most of the visitors lining up to see the Sistine Chapel on Friday morning were prepared.
Hugo Munoz, 48, from Texas, used his US vaccination card to gain entry and welcomed the new checks, even though they caused longer queues.
“I know there are mixed feelings ... but we did it back at home, and to us at least it gives us a little bit of a peace of mind that we probably are more protected,” he told AFP.
However, tourists are not the only ones caught out.
Millions of Italians are still not vaccinated and therefore those who have not recently recovered from coronavirus can only get a green pass by taking a test.
There have been pockets of protests, most recently on Thursday night, when thousands gathered in Turin’s main plaza, Piazza Castello, in an event dubbed “No Fear Day”.
Most were without masks and some held signs saying “Freedom” and “State Discrimination”.
In restaurants in central Rome, not everyone was asking for a green pass for diners wanting to sit inside, despite the risk of stiff fines.
Many establishments have concerns about how the pass will work in practice, particularly for tourists with tests or vaccination certificates in a different format than that recognised in the EU.
On Thursday night, the government also agreed to make the green pass obligatory for teachers as well as passengers on domestic flights, ferries and long-distance trains and buses from September 1.
Ministers insist the measures are crucial to curb rising coronavirus cases, while allowing businesses to stay open.
“I say to all Italians: vaccinate yourselves and respect the rules,” Prime Minister Mario Draghi told reporters yesterday ahead of parliament’s summer break.