Coronavirus lockdown: pictures of an empty world

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The coronavirus outbreak has resulted in public spaces emptying around the world as travel is shut down and people are confined to their homes.

Photos of quiet Venetian canals and Rome’s deserted Colosseum emerged weeks ago as Italy went into lockdown. Trying to get a selfie in front of the country’s famous landmarks could now land you a fine – or get you arrested.

Beaches from Nice to Dubai are closed, emptied and patrolled by officials sending any spring sun-seekers home.

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In Paris, even the area around the Eiffel Tower is barren, with just a few mask-wearing visitors snapping selfies before being moved on by groups of weary police officers.

London’s Trafalgar Square, usually packed with people painted silver, pretending to be statues, has emptied. Just the odd pigeon is left behind, wondering where their usually reliable source of food – crumb-spilling tourists – has gone.

But despite a massive drop-off in the number of people venturing out, London’s commuters have not quite got the message.