Raggi had for weeks been under pressure to take action, amid multiple reports of people bathing in, snacking by, or mounting the precious masterpieces such as the Trevi Fountain, the Barcaccia by the Spanish Steps, or the Lions Fountain in Piazza del Popolo.

Raggi's decree, valid until October 31, bans "any conduct incompatible with the natural purpose" of the fountains, including the washing of clothes and animals, but makes exceptions for the traditional ritual of coin throwing.

Several Italian cities are struggling to cope with mass tourism, especially in the summer. In Florence, Mayor Dario Nardella has recently decided to hose down with water pavements and steps of famous churches to stop tourists from camping out on them.

ak/st (dpa)