Residents of Hallstatt, a town in Austria recognized as a World Heritage Site, have engaged in a demonstration against the impacts of excessive tourism. Despite having a local population of just over 700 people, Hallstatt experiences a surge of up to 10,000 daily visitors during peak tourism season, BBC reports.
The inhabitants are advocating for restrictions on the daily influx of tourists and a prohibition on tour buses after 5:00 p.m. local time. Although tourism has provided economic benefits to Hallstatt, certain residents argue that the sheer volume of visitors has become overwhelming.
Hallstatt, situated on the banks of an immaculate Alpine lake amidst rugged mountains, has gained prominence as a tourist destination in recent times. Its popularity soared after being featured in a South Korean romantic drama in 2006, particularly increasing its allure in Asia. China even constructed a replica of the town six years later. Many visitors come primarily for the opportunity to capture picturesque selfies against the backdrop of the lake, the delicate pale grey church tower, and the breathtaking mountain landscape.
As one of Europe's most overtouristed locations, some locals contend that the abundance of visitors, particularly day-trippers arriving in large buses, has become untenable. Much like other places affected by "over-tourism," such as Venice, Hallstatt seems poised to contend with the mixed blessings of its popularity. In May of the current year, residents temporarily erected a wooden barrier at a popular selfie spot, obstructing the view of the Alps. This protest aimed to draw attention to issues of noise pollution and traffic. Following a negative response on social media, the barrier was removed.
Previously, the town's mayor expressed intentions to decrease the number of buses passing through Hallstatt by a third. Prior to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, Hallstatt welcomed approximately one million visitors annually.
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