Rome, Italy – Authorities have initiated an urgent operation to remove five trees at Villa Torlonia park due to significant structural instability, posing a risk to public safety. The decision follows recent technical assessments that identified the trees as being in a critical condition and at imminent risk of collapse. The work began on Thursday, March 12, 2026, with temporary closures implemented to ensure visitor safety.
The affected trees include a Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), a Chilean wine palm (Jubaea chilensis), a date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), an Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis), and a Judas tree (Cercis siliquastrum). A technical assessment classified the trees as “class D” – the highest level of danger – indicating a high probability of immediate failure, according to officials with the Special Superintendency for Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape of Rome.
To facilitate the removal process, access along the avenue between the Propylaea and the Casino dei Principi has been restricted, with access limited to Via Nomentana. The entrance via Siracusa Street is also closed to the public. These closures are intended to protect park visitors from potential falling debris. The operation is being carried out in accordance with guidelines from the Soprintendenza Speciale Archeologia, Belle Arti e Paesaggio di Roma, ensuring any disruption to the park’s historical and aesthetic value is minimized.
Species at Risk and Mitigation Efforts
The removal of the Phoenix dactylifera, commonly known as the date palm, is among the urgent measures being taken. This species, along with the other four identified trees, presented an unacceptable level of risk to the public. The decision to remove these trees was not taken lightly, officials stated, emphasizing the priority of public safety.
The city of Rome has committed to fully compensate for the removal of the trees with new plantings, adhering to the prescriptions of the Special Superintendency for Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape of Rome. This commitment underscores the city’s dedication to preserving the park’s green spaces and biodiversity. The new plantings will be carefully selected to ensure they are appropriate for the park’s environment and historical context.
Park Closures and Public Access
The temporary closures are expected to remain in effect although the tree removal operation is underway. Park authorities are advising visitors to avoid the affected areas and to heed all posted signage. Updates on the status of the closures will be provided through official channels, including the City of Rome’s website and social media accounts. The closures are a necessary precaution to prevent potential injuries during the removal process, which involves heavy machinery and the risk of falling branches.
The urgency of the situation stems from the advanced state of deterioration of the trees. The perizia (expert assessment) conducted by a forest technician revealed significant structural weaknesses, making the trees vulnerable to collapse even in mild weather conditions. This assessment prompted the immediate action to mitigate the risk to park users.
Looking Ahead
The completion of the tree removal is the first step in a broader effort to assess and manage the health of the trees within Villa Torlonia. Authorities are planning further inspections to identify any other trees that may pose a risk to public safety. The ongoing maintenance and monitoring of the park’s trees will be crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors. The city is also reviewing its tree management protocols to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed about park updates and safety advisories through official city channels. Your feedback and observations are valuable as we work to maintain the beauty and safety of Villa Torlonia for generations to come.
