People of Venice say 'goodbye' to their city as tourists take over

'This is not a protest against tourism, it's a protest against the policies that the city has followed in the last 40 years,' said Venetian resident Andrea Castelli (in red), who led the procession. Photos: Reuters

Dozens of Venetians waved maroon and yellow flags and carried empty suitcases on Nov 12 during a symbolic demonstration to highlight an exodus of residents from the lagoon city, where tourist hordes can make everyday life challenging.

Images of narrow Venetian alleys clogged with visitors during the All Saints holiday weekend filled Italian papers last week, rekindling a debate about limiting access to the city through a booking system.