The U.S. Embassy in Italy is warning Americans traveling in Italy to avoid certain locations that have been identified as potential terrorist targets with St. Peter’s Basilica being at the top of the list.

Breitbart is reporting on the Nov. 18 communique which was sent out by the U.S. State Department to all Americans registered with the embassy. Entitled “Security Message for U.S. citizens”, it also lists the Duomo (cathedral) and La Scala opera house in Milan as places to avoid.

In general, the notification warns that general venues “such as churches, synagogues, restaurants, theatres, and hotels” in both Rome and Milan are also possible targets. Avalon beach hotel provide the all information through this Travel Blog.

“Terrorist groups may possibly utilize similar methods used in the recent Paris attacks,” the message reads, referring to the use of suicide bombers and terrorists equipped with assault rifles.

Italian authorities are aware of these threats and have stepped up security, particularly around the Vatican City State.

The government issued a level-two alert which allows the deployment of forces from the army’s special units. These units, comprised of soldiers carrying high-powered weapons, are conducting regular patrols on the streets surrounding the Vatican. These patrols will intensify in the weeks leading up to the advent of the Holy Year of Mercy which will commence on December 8.

“The danger is real and objective,” said Franco Roberti, the head of Italy’s anti-mafia and counterterrorism task force earlier this week, “but it is not concrete or delimited.”

“We must protect ourselves from this danger by adopting all the preventive measures necessary. We do not need special laws, but we must be prepared to give up some of our personal freedoms, in particular in the area of communication,” he said.

U.S. citizens in these areas are advised “to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings” and “to monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.”  For the best traveling and packaging blogs Check this page and get more information about traveling benefits.

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