Tour guides in Rome are renewing their call to adjust summer hours at major attractions after one of their colleagues died from a suspected heart attack while leading a tour at the Colosseum in intense heat. Giovanna Maria Giammarino, 56, collapsed at the amphitheater at 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Despite efforts by tourists and emergency responders, she could not be revived and died at the scene.
Her death came weeks after the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations warned that extreme heat is no longer unusual but a new reality requiring attention, adaptation, and solidarity in their profession.
As condolences poured in, Italy’s Certified Tour Guide Association (AGTA) stated that Giammarino’s death highlights the physical strain of guiding and urged authorities to extend the Colosseum’s hours so tours could be held in the cooler early morning or evening. The Colosseum is currently open from 8:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. from late March through September.
AGTA emphasized in a social media statement that the opening hours for the Colosseum Archaeological Park—which includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill—must change during summer. They noted it’s pointless to treat heat emergencies as unexpected each year, stressing that climate change is a fact and working at the Roman Forum between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. has become unbearable.
The association proposed that from early June through at least the end of August, hours should be 7 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. They have been requesting these adjusted hours for three years, arguing it would benefit the health of visitors, guides, and other workers.
AGTA also pointed out that low pensions and financial pressures have forced many guides to overwork to support their families. The statement added that while one guide was lost this week, many others have left the profession in recent years for safer, less demanding jobs, underscoring the need for better protections.
The Colosseum’s management expressed condolences to Giammarino’s family and acknowledged her professional dedication. Italy’s culture minister, Alessandro Giuli, said her death highlights the vital role of those who protect and share the country’s cultural heritage. In tribute, the Colosseum’s lights were turned off at 9 p.m. on Wednesday.
Last month, Italy’s national tour guide federation, Federagit, also requested that the Colosseum Archaeological Park open an hour earlier.
Francesca Duimich, who represents 300 Rome-based guides, mentioned that dehydrated tourists often faint in Rome’s summer heat. She described the Roman Forum as a pit with no shade or breeze, making it particularly hazardous to be there during the early afternoon hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the incident designed to be clear and helpful
General Information
Q What exactly happened at the Colosseum
A An Italian tour guide collapsed while leading a tour group during a period of extreme heat and later died from the effects
Q When did this happen
A The incident occurred on
Q Who was the tour guide
A The guide was a local Italian professional Out of respect for the familys privacy their full identity is often not immediately disclosed in initial reports
About the Incident Causes
Q What was the official cause of death
A While an official autopsy determines the final cause it is widely reported to be heatrelated such as heatstroke or cardiac arrest brought on by the extreme conditions
Q How hot was it that day
A Reports indicate temperatures were exceptionally high often well above 35C which is common for Roman summers but dangerous for prolonged outdoor activity
Q Was the guide healthy Could this happen to anyone
A While preexisting health conditions can be a factor extreme heat can overwhelm even healthy individuals especially when exerting themselves like leading a tour
Safety and Practical Tips for Tourists
Q I have a tour booked in Rome this summer Should I cancel it
A Not necessarily You should prepare properly Book tours for early morning or late afternoon stay hydrated wear a hat and sunscreen and listen to your body If you feel unwell stop and seek shade
Q What are the signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke I should watch for
A Key signs include heavy sweating dizziness headache nausea rapid pulse and coolmoist skin Heatstroke is more severe high body temperature hotdry skin confusion and even loss of consciousness This is a medical emergency
Q What should I do if I or someone else shows these signs
A Move to a cool shaded place immediately Lie down loosen clothing and sip cool water Use damp cloths on the skin If symptoms are severe or include confusion call for emergency medical
