Spotorno nuns contest loss of beach concession

In the Ligurian coastal town of Spotorno, Italy, the Suore di Carità di Santa Maria religious order is contesting a decision by local authorities to revoke their long-standing beach concession. Since 1946, the nuns have operated the ‘Bagni Gino Garrone’ beach club, using all proceeds to fund charitable activities, including a local preschool and a summer camp.

Spotorno Mayor Mattia Fiorini intends to implement the Bolkestein Directive to increase the amount of freely accessible beach space. Under this plan, the 50-meter stretch currently managed by the order will be subject to public tender, requiring the nuns to compete for the concession like commercial entities. The municipality views the current arrangement as a regular paid concession that must comply with EU and regional regulations regarding free beach quotas.

The nuns argue that the loss of the concession would jeopardize the funding for their social programs. The dispute has led to heated public meetings and local tension. Tenders are expected to be published between October and November, with new concessions slated for assignment in early 2027.