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OME, ITALY - NOV. 9, 2024: A portable walkway set up in the pool section is opened for visitors to see the sculptures of the fountain up close, while extensive maintenance work continues at the historic Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) in Rome, Italy on Saturday, Nov. 09.One of Rome's iconic landmarks, a historic fountain that draws millions of tourists each year, hosted an unusual opening event.While extensive maintenance and repair work initiated by the Rome Municipality early last month continues, city officials took a step to accommodate visitors who were disappointed not to see the fountain in its usual form. Due to maintenance, the water in the fountain's pool was drained, and a temporary walkway was installed, allowing visitors to get a closer view of the statues, including the prominent statue of Poseidon.The temporary bridge was inaugurated this morning by Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri. Speaking to reporters, Gualtieri noted that while the fountain would be briefly closed for maintenance, this temporary bridge would allow both Romans and tourists visiting the city to see the Trevi Fountain in a different way during the ongoing work.Mayor Gualtieri recalled that a similar bridge and coin-throwing pool had been set up during the restoration in 2014, and he described criticism and controversy around the temporary bridge and pool as “incomprehensible.”He addressed recent criticisms, defended the temporary setup, and explained that this arrangement attracts tourists even during maintenance work, giving them a rare opportunity to admire the fountain up close, which would not be possible otherwise.Gualtieri noted that a similar arrangement was in place in 2014 and described it as a chance to view the fountain from a unique perspective. He added that many visitors have thanked him and expressed appreciation for the initiative.(Writing by Berkay Gür - Footage by Barış Seçkin/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)