Color row in Como. Authorities mandate “anthracite gray” in restaurants

The polemic in Como, in northern Italy, was sparked by a new regulation of the city authorities, which ordered that in the historic center, the equipment in the gardens of catering establishments should only be anthracite gray, and the tablecloths should be of a uniform color.

According to the regulation, outdoor tables and chairs, menu stands and flower pots are to be placed in anthracite gray in the city center. The only color allowed for umbrellas is pearl white.

The regulations are so precise that they include color numbering.

Equipment such as carpets, benches, screens and other decorative equipment are prohibited.

The area occupied in front of the premises cannot exceed 90 square meters; this is half of the current limit.

As noted by the Italian media, these decisions were made in a city that has seen a significant increase in the number of tourists in recent years, as well as bars and restaurants with outdoor tables.

The local service federation is protesting against the new regulations, criticizing mayor Alessandro Rapinese for not consulting them with representatives of the catering industry.

Previously, a controversy in Como was caused by the introduction of high parking prices in central points of the city: EUR 3 per hour, or EUR 72 for the whole day. This price list, aimed at limiting the phenomenon of excessive tourism, was called the “volcano tariff”. (PAP)

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