Sorrento – He was walking casually shirtless through the heart of the city, but was issued an administrative fine.
It happened this morning in Sorrento, where an American tourist was stopped and fined by the municipal police, led by Colonel Rosa Russo, who were carrying out checks on respect for urban decorum.
The incident occurred in Piazza Torquato Tasso, the hub of city life and a major tourist destination. The incident was contested for violating a municipal ordinance in effect since 2022, which expressly prohibited walking in a bathing suit or bare-chested throughout the entire municipal area, including streets, squares, and public spaces.
A 2022 municipal ordinance has been applied
The measure is part of the so-called "urban gold decree," a fundamental tool for protecting the image and liveability of tourist destinations, often challenged by inappropriate behavior by some visitors.
The ban is indicated by special signs distributed throughout the city, but despite this, there are still violators. These violations carry fines ranging from €25 to €500.
The municipal administration, currently headed by Special Commissioner Rosalba Scialla, took the opportunity to relaunch an appeal to hotel, B&B, and public venue managers: it is essential to inform tourists about the rules of civil coexistence, so that everyone can contribute to preserving the identity and decorum of an area whose beauty and hospitality are its strengths.
"Compliance with decorum regulations," the City Council reminds us, "concerns everyone, first and foremost visitors, who are welcome, but also the primary ambassadors of our city's image."




I agree with Ecattaneo, but I think the rules are important. But the problem remains the lack of clear information for tourists. Perhaps a more peaceful solution could be found.
I think the situation is a bit exaggerated; a fine for being shirtless in the summer seems a bit excessive. Maybe they should inform tourists better instead of fining them right away, I don't know.