Rome pool's women-only session for Muslim women sparks controversy

A Rome public pool opened after regular hours for a women-only session aimed at Muslim women, attracting about 40 attendees and sparking political controversy. The event, organized by the Islamic Community of Rome, drew praise as inclusive and criticism from politicians. Influencer Simone Carabella caused a disturbance and ate pork provocatively before leaving; a morning session was canceled due to low participation. Organizers said the two-hour session provided privacy for women who feel uncomfortable showing their bodies and that the pool would have been closed anyway. Participants cited support for violence survivors and women struggling with self-acceptance.