Tourist Unaware of Ancient Origins Defaces Rome’s Colosseum, Claims Innocence

A letter addressed to the prosecutor and mayor of the city, Ivan Danailov Dimitrov, 27, expressed his awareness of the seriousness of his actions and apologized to the people of Italy and the entire world for the damage caused at the UNESCO World Heritage site. Dimitrov acknowledged his thoughtlessness and disrespect towards other visitors during the incident, stating that he had no excuses. Furthermore, he recognized the immeasurable artistic and historical importance of the Colosseum, expressing deep embarrassment for his lack of appreciation for its ancient significance until after the incident occurred.

Dimitrov’s attorney, Alexandro Maria Tirelli, stated that a plea bargain request was made to secure his client’s avoidance of imprisonment, with agreement reached by the prosecutor on this matter. However, the exact details of the plea bargain were still being negotiated. Attempts to contact the prosecutors and representatives for the Carabinieri, Italy’s national police, for comments were unsuccessful. The identification of Dimitrov as the visitor responsible for the damage was made through photographs, and a viral video showed him writing “Ivan + Hayley 23” on a wall. Concerning this incident, Ryan Lutz, the American filmmaker who recorded the video, informed security and expressed his disbelief and desire for the tourist to learn a lesson in respecting host countries.

Online, Italian officials expressed their outrage at the act of vandalism. Culture minister Gennaro Sangiuliano tweeted that it displayed great incivility, while tourism minister Daniela Santanchè expressed her hope that the tourist would face appropriate sanctions. According to Italy’s ANSA news agency, the penalties for this damage could include a prison sentence of up to five years and a fine exceeding €15,000.