August 19, 2025 | 03:09 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A tourist from Scotland was caught stealing stones from Pompeii, an ancient Roman city in Italy that has been designated as a World Heritage Site since 1997. The tourist faces potential penalties of up to six years in prison and a maximum fine of 1,500 euros or Rp 28.2 million.
Six stolen stones, consisting of five stones and one brick, from the site dating back to the 8th to 6th century BC were found in the tourist's backpack. They were reported after being seen picking up pieces of the pavement by a guide. The guide reported this to the Italian law enforcement during an evening tour.
The Italian Carabinieri officers found the man outside the Pompeii excavation site near the EAV Villa dei Misteri station, said a spokesperson on Thursday, August 14. The collected items were found and returned to the park. The tourist has been reported for aggravated theft.
The tourist initially claimed that his son had taken them because he collected stones and was unaware that taking stones from Pompeii was an illegal act, said the Carabinieri spokesperson, as reported by the New York Times.
Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, expressed gratitude to the "attentive tour guide," custodians and security staff, as well as to the Carabinieri for their "collaborative effort to protect our heritage."
Bad Luck Myth
Although caught by security personnel, the tourist is spared from the myth of bad luck for thieves in Pompeii. According to Independent, the ancient town that was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD has long been rumored to bring misfortune to its thieves.
In 2020, a tourist returned artifacts she had stolen from Pompeii 15 years earlier, claiming that the items were cursed. The Canadian tourist stated that her and her family suffered bad luck after stealing tiles from the site in her early 20s. She believed it was due to the "fury of the gods."
To appease "the gods," the tourist returned the items to the travel agency in an envelope with a letter of apology. Nicole said she was worried that stealing two mosaic tiles, a piece of ceramic, and part of an amphora had caused financial misfortunes for her family. In addition to financial problems, she was diagnosed with breast cancer twice, leading to a double mastectomy.
Editor’s Choice: 9 Popular Tourist Destinations with the Longest Queues
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
20-Year-Old Palestinian Woman Dies of Malnutrition in Italy Following Gaza Evacuation
2 hari lalu
A 20-year-old Palestinian woman died of malnutrition in Italy just a day after being evacuated from the Gaza Strip, local media reported on Saturday.
Bali's Travel Deals and Events for Indonesia's Independence Day Celebrations
2 hari lalu
Several of Bali's popular tourist spots are offering special promotions and events for travelers celebrating Indonesia's Independence Day.
Venice to Raise Gondola Fares After Imposing Tourist Tax
3 hari lalu
As more tourists opt for the cheaper gondola services, the Venetians are complaining.
Why Indonesia Is the Cheapest Travel Spot for Americans
5 hari lalu
The study reports the average daily cost for a vacation in Indonesia is a mere US$70.23, or approximately Rp1.1 million.
Forestry Ministry Updates Mount Rinjani Hiking Rules
5 hari lalu
The Forestry Ministry has announced that Mount Rinjani hiking route is now classified as a Level IV difficulty, making it unsuitable for beginners.
Australian Tourist Recounts Cheeky Monkey Raid in Bali
7 hari lalu
The Australian tourist said the incident would not stop her from returning to Bali and even hoped to witness the monkeys' antics again.
Vatican Ranked as the World's Most Crowded Tourist Spot
9 hari lalu
The Vatican, with an area of only 44 hectares, holds significant cultural value as a pilgrimage site for many people around the world.
Italy Spends a Decade Building Suspension Bridge to Sicily
10 hari lalu
Construction of the suspension bridge connecting mainland Italy and Sicily is expected to be completed by 2033.
Why Japanese Tourists Are Choosing Nara Over Kyoto
10 hari lalu
The current condition of Kyoto has made it less appealing to residents, despite the city being the center of traditional Japanese culture.
Five-Star Hotel to Be Built on Tanjung Aan Beach, Mandalika
10 hari lalu
Tanjung Aan, located in Mandalika on the island of Lombok, is famous for its white sand and clear blue waters.
