ROME, March 29 (Xinhua) -- The Italian capital will heighten security measures over the Easter weekend, adding to an already-heavier police presence following the March 22 terror attack in Moscow.
Italy was among a handful of European states to bolster security at key transportation hubs and cultural sites in the wake of the deadly assault on a concert hall in the suburbs of Moscow that left at least 140 dead.
In the lead-up to Easter Sunday, security is being stepped up further with 600 extra police officers -- many in plain clothes -- posted around the city, along with heightened security. The Ministry of the Interior has also released guidelines limiting access to key areas for certain types of motor vehicles.
The bulk of the security efforts will be centered on the Vatican City, a Catholic microstate surrounded by Rome. The Easter celebrations from Friday to Monday are expected to draw large crowds to Rome and the Vatican and will be broadcast around the world.
