(Newser)
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The days of getting up close and personal with Rome's iconic Colosseum are coming to an end. The monument will soon be ringed by a protective barrier to keep tourists out of the reach of falling debris. Cast iron columns will be erected anywhere from 15 to 50 feet from the outer walls, reports Reuters, which notes that bits and pieces of the monument have been tumbling to the ground lately, often after rain storms. Officials say that the Colosseum itself isn't in danger of collapsing, and will soon receive its first restoration in 73 years. Don't worry, tourists and Spartacus wannabes—the ruins will remain open the entire time.
