Italian city bans bicycles from historic centre after mayor's collision

Alessandro Rapinese, mayor of the northern Italian city of Como, has issued an ordinance prohibiting bicycles from the historic city centre after being struck by a cyclist last month. The restriction applies to the medieval core of the lakeside city and aims to enhance pedestrian safety in the densely populated area.

Rapinese cited the incident as motivation for the measure, describing bicycles as potential hazards to foot traffic in the narrow, crowded streets of Como's ancient quarter. The prohibition marks an escalation in the city's efforts to manage transport and safety within its most visited districts.

The ban has drawn mixed reactions from Como residents and cycling advocates, who argue that bicycles represent an environmentally friendly transport option. City officials maintain the measure is necessary to prevent accidents and protect the integrity of the historic district's pedestrian environment.

The ordinance represents a growing tension in European cities between promoting cycling as sustainable transport and managing congestion and safety concerns in heritage areas. Como joins several other historic city centres across Europe that have implemented similar restrictions on bicycle traffic.