The Italian beach of Pedocin, also known as Alla Lanterna, in Trieste has experienced a significant increase in visitor numbers following an incident in June that sparked international debate about its gender-segregation policy. In July, authorities sold 53,610 tickets, a notable rise from the 34,885 tickets sold in July 2025 and 40,160 in July 2024. Over the past three months, the beach has attracted approximately 100,000 visitors, generating €120,000 in ticket revenue.
A wall divides Pedocin beach, separating the area for men from the area designated for women and children under 12. This physical division has been in place for over a century. To interact with someone of the opposite gender, beachgoers must enter the sea and swim to designated buoys.
The recent surge in visitors followed a confrontation in June when a woman, reportedly accompanied by her partner, attempted to sunbathe on the male side of the beach. She was challenged by another beachgoer, leading to an altercation that drew international attention. The defiant woman reportedly called the segregation "medieval" and "a form of discrimination."
According to local reports, the majority of Pedocin's attendees are women. Some female beachgoers have expressed that the separation allows for topless bathing without unwanted attention. The beach, which is characterized by pebbles rather than sand and is located near the city center, tends to attract an older, returning clientele. Entrance fees, which were around €1 before the COVID-19 pandemic, have since increased to €2.40.