Historic Rome landmark's temporary closure causes uproar: 'Saddest thing I've seen in Italy'

When in Rome, travelers may have a visit to the Trevi Fountain included on their itinerary, but tourists who are currently visiting the famous attraction are in for a surprise.

The Trevi Fountain is currently under maintenance and a makeshift pool has been added in its place.

Appearing to be made from plastic and plywood while surrounded by metal rods, the substitute still offers visitors a chance to toss in a coin and make a wish.

It's "the saddest thing I've seen in Italy in as long as I can remember," said one user on X.

"This is very cheap and ugly, it does not belong at The Fountain of Trevi," another person commented.

One man joked, "That gives you like the opposite of your wish."

One man remarked, "That touch of class that everyone was expecting."

"If the question was how do you make something beautiful ugly - this is the answer," another man wrote.

Some users defended the move made by Italian officials. 

One person on X said, "Great idea while construction is ongoing."

"It's not affecting the crowds. It was packed last night," another user wrote.

One man said, "Why is this sad? People want to still throw coins and this is an option for them."

The proposed measure would include officials asking non-residents to make a "symbolic" contribution of around $1 or $2, while residents would be able to access the fountain for free, Fox News Digital reported.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Italian Ministry of Tourism for comment.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.