The holiday season is here, and Christmas markets are lighting up cities across Europe.
From Vienna to Rome, these beloved events offer mulled wine, festive foods, and a chance to shop for handmade gifts.
For many, they are the heart of the holiday season. However, following a tragic attack in Magdeburg, Germany, security concerns have cast a shadow over the festivities.
Tragedy in Magdeburg
On Friday, a Saudi refugee drove a car into a crowd at a Christmas market in Magdeburg. The attack killed five people and injured over 200 others.
Local reports suggest the incident followed an argument on social media, adding a chilling layer to the tragedy.
The aftermath has pushed countries across Europe to reevaluate safety at public events during the holidays.
Austria responded swiftly, increasing police presence at Vienna's Christmas markets and in other provinces.
"Due to the incident in Magdeburg, which has no connection to Austria, we have decided to increase police presence in Vienna, particularly focusing on the city's Christmas markets," said David Pawlik, a spokesperson for the Austrian police.
While officials emphasized there is no specific threat, they are working closely with their German counterparts. This isn't Austria's first brush with heightened holiday vigilance.
In 2020, a supporter of the Islamic State killed four people and injured 23 in central Vienna, leading to stricter anti-terror measures.
Italy has also bolstered its security at markets, tourist attractions, and other crowded venues.
A directive from the police called for "immediate and reinforced security measures" nationwide, focusing on areas popular with tourists and holiday shoppers.
Efforts to identify and thwart potential threats have also been stepped up.
