Vatican Museums Catch a Rogue Visitor in the Act
On Wednesday, October 5, a lanky middle‑aged “art vandal” decided to give the ancient Roman busts a workout, knocking two out in the vault that keeps over 1,000 historic faces.
The Incident
The rip‑roaring gentleman, apparently in his fifties and behaving strangely, staggered straight into the Chiaramonti hall—the bulletin board of the old‑world portrait universe. Two distinguished busts slipped from their pedestals, crashing onto the marble.
Quick Response
- Staff, quick on the draw, grabbed him in a tactical‑style hold.
- Within minutes, Vatican police swooped in and cuffed the guy.
Damage to the Art
Not a catastrophic blow—the busts are intact but a bit dented. The museum’s restoration squad is already tackling the repairs.
Going Back to Business
After the pandemic‑driven slow‑down, the Vatican Museums have poured the tourists back in. They usually welcome about six million visitors a year.
A Look at the Past
There’s a historical “scandal” to remember: back in 1972, a Hungarian disruptor smashed Michelangelo’s Pietà with a sledgehammer, chopping off a left arm and nicking the nose. The masterpiece now sits behind bullet‑proof glass.
Join the Fun
Even though the news is grim, it’s oddly entertaining. Guess the muse vaults are a bit too tempting.
