ROME, Feb. 17 (UPI) -- An Italian government study warns that some of Rome's ancient structures are crumbling, posing a mortal threat to millions of tourists visiting the capital.
The study was ordered in November by the Ministry of Culture in the wake of the collapse of a wall on the Palatine Hill, the first of Rome's legendary seven hills, reports Britain's Independent. No one was hurt in that incident.
Among the structures which the study said are in need of emergency treatment are the ruins of palaces from where emperors watched chariot races on the Circus Maximus, the house of Julius Caesar and the labyrinthine Golden Dome of Nero.
Angelo Bottini, head of Rome's Archaeological Office, said: "We have a sick patient with many diseases. We need to find out which ones are the most serious and intervene," the newspaper reported.
The report, however, noted many of the ancient treasures are still in remarkable condition.
