Tuesday, August 20, 2024 A 19-year-old tourist has ignited outrage after carving his initials into the ancient Colosseum in Rome . The act of vandalism has led to charges of damaging cultural property, which could result in a prison sentence of two to five years and a fine up to 15,000 euros. Rome’s Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, condemned the act, stating, “The police’s swift action in arresting and punishing the vandal is commendable.
In a city rich with global heritage, there is no room for such disrespectful behavior.” This incident echoes a previous case involving 27-year-old Ivan Dimitrov from Bristol, who was fined approximately 1,000 euros and avoided prosecution for a similar act in 2022. Dimitrov also issued an apology to the Mayor of Rome and the Prosecutor’s Office.
Despite the vandalism, the Colosseum remains a major attraction, with over 22,000 visitors on August’s bank holiday. Minister of Culture Gennaro Sangiuliano, who visited the site, praised the efforts of museum staff. He was joined by key officials, including Alfonsina Russo, Gianmarco Mazzi, and General Francesco Gargaro, highlighting the site’s ongoing importance and the commitment to preserving its legacy.
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