McDonald’s is Opening Near Florence Cathedral, and Florentines Aren’t Happy

McDonald’s wants to open a new fast food outlet near Florence’s cathedral, and the locals aren’t happy about it.

McDonald’s plans to open a restaurant in Piazza del Duomo, near Florence Cathedral, which was completed in the 15th century and now recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. McDonald’s said it had the agreement of Florence’s mayor, The Telegraph reports.

More than 16,000 people have now signed a Facebook petition to keep McDonald’s from being built near the cathedral, which is the third largest church in the world and known for its dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi.

About three months ago, the city council limited the number of kebab shops, mini-markets and convenience stores near Piazza del Duomo. The city also ruled that new businesses must source at least half their products from Tuscany, and McDonald’s had planned to abide by this rule.

McDonald’s in Italy says it will now consider taking legal action to challenge the city council. The city council will make a final decision on this issue in the summer.

[The Telegraph]