It seems to be a trend at the moment to "privatize" public space. After cities like Venice, which already charge entrance fees or plan to do so in the near future, Seville is now joining the list.
The mayor of Seville, Spain, has announced that tourists wishing to visit the Plaza de España will have to pay an entrance fee of 3 to 4 euros. The square is one of the most important tourist attractions in Andalusia. It is not yet clear when the fee will be introduced, but the decision has already been made and it is only a matter of time. The income will be used for the restoration and maintenance of the square.
This entrance fee is levied in addition to the existing tourist tax on overnight stays and is justified by the need to combat mass tourism. However, numerous studies have shown that such measures have little effect on mass tourism. Therefore, the introduction of such fees often leaves a somewhat bitter aftertaste.
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