The decision by local authorities in Villasimius, Sardinia, to ban umbrellas for most beachgoers at Punta Molentis beach based on age criteria has sparked reactions. Under the new rules, only families with children under the age of 10 and people over 65 are allowed to put up an umbrella, while for everyone else — meaning those aged between 10 and 65 — umbrella use is not permitted.
Punta Molentis, although a public beach, has a €10 entry fee and is located in a protected area. Local authorities argue that the measure is part of an effort to reduce human pressure and protect the natural environment, especially after a devastating wildfire that led to the beach’s closure last July. In addition to umbrellas, tents, gazebos and other shade structures are also banned, with the rules remaining in force until the end of October.
The rising cost of Italy’s beach bars, up 24% over the past five years, has fueled protests calling for greater public access to the sea.
The decision prompted ironic and critical comments on social media, with several beachgoers pointing out that the lack of shade could increase the risk of heatstroke or sunburn. Others joked that they would have to “rent a child” or bring a grandfather along in order to be allowed to put up an umbrella.
The case comes at a time of growing tension over access to Italian beaches. The rising cost of private beach concessions, with the price of two sunbeds and one umbrella having increased by 24% over the past five years, has pushed more beachgoers toward free beaches and fueled protests demanding greater public access to the sea.
Source: Guardian
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