Italy and Spain are among a number of European countries that are further easing their coronavirus lockdown restrictions from Monday. Most businesses in Italy, including bars and hairdressers, will be free to reopen after more than two months of nationwide lockdown measures. Spain meanwhile has slightly eased restrictions on some of its least affected islands.
The measures follow consistent drops in the number of daily recorded deaths. On Sunday, Italy recorded the fewest daily deaths since it entered lockdown in March. It said 145 people had died with the virus in the previous 24 hours. This marked a significant drop from its highest daily death toll, which was more than 900 on 27 March.
Restaurants, bars, cafes, hairdressers and shops will be allowed to reopen in Italy, providing social distancing is enforced. Catholic churches are preparing for the resumption of Mass, but there will be strict social distancing and worshippers must wear face masks. Other faiths will also be allowed to hold religious services.
In Spain, some areas are also seeing restrictions ease.
The country has a four-phase system for reopening, which authorities are applying at different speeds in different regions. Most of Spain moved into phase one last week. Up to 10 people are allowed to meet together, provided they wear masks and socially distance, while bars and restaurants can open outdoor seating at half capacity. Cinemas, museums and theatres are also opening at reduced capacity.
Some Spanish islands that have not been badly affected by the outbreak moved into phase two on Monday - allowing shopping malls to reopen and gatherings of up to 15 people. Barcelona, Madrid and parts of the north-west however remain in phase 0. Most restrictions will remain in place, but some small shops will be allowed to reopen on Monday and funerals can be held for groups of up to 10 inside and 15 outside. This has been dubbed "phase 0.5" - an intermediate step in these regions.
Elsewhere in Europe:
- Belgium is to begin reopening primary and secondary schools under strict conditions on Monday, with museums and zoos also opening their doors - albeit only to those who book online, to limit numbers
- The famous Acropolis reopened in Greece, and secondary school pupils are returning to class
- Restaurants, cafes and pastry shops restart business at reduced capacity in Portugal
- Poland's beauty salons and hairdressers reopen, as well as restaurants and cafes