We'll be in Italy for a month this fall. Will the major cities be full of scaffoldings in preparation for 2000? Will it be difficult to view most of the major historical sites this fall? We'd love to hear from anyone who has information on how things will "look". <BR>Thanks to anyone who can help. <BR>

If you search the forum, you'll find this subject has come up at least twice in the last month, so you can find some additional info. Also there have been recent articles in the New York Times, the Boston Globe, and the Wall Street Journal. The impression I've gotten from these sources is that yes, there is a lot of restoration and scaffolding, particularly in Rome. But there is ALWAYS a lot of restoration going on in Italy. Some of the work has been going on since 1996! And some things may be finished by then. I understand there has been completed renovation in the Uffizi and in (I think?) the National Museum of Rome. There's new excavations in the Forum. The Borghese Museum in Rome just re-opened after 2 years of reno. So I would say expect to see some scaffolding, and just try not to let it interfere with your enjoyment. You may not have a clear view of St. Peter's Dome though

Beth - Thanks for your information. I found good info in the forum. I'm a new "poster" so appreciate all the help. Will check out WSJ, NYTimes and Boston Globe articles. Marge <BR>

The facade of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican was completely scaffolded in June 1998 when we were there. However the Pantheon was reopened just before we left. <P>Frankly I don't know why they even bother; the pollution from those noisy little motorbikes and their cars will return the monuments to their filthyness in no time.

When I was in Italy 3 years ago, things were under renovation and cleaning in all 3 cities, Venice, Florence, and Rome. The Duomo in Florence had scaffolding inside and out. I didn't mind. I was still thrilled. I'm glad they clean the pollution off the beautiful stone. The difference between the dirty and the clean was amazing! I got the impression that by the time they finish going all the way around, it's time to start at the begging again....