The Uffizi Gallery in Florence released a video showing a male visitor tearing an oil portrait of Prince Ferdinando de Medici on 21/6. The artwork was created by artist Niccolo Cassana in 1709.

Portrait of Prince Ferdinando de Medici by artist Niccolo Cassana. Photo: Corriere della Sera/X

Portrait of Prince Ferdinando de Medici by artist Niccolo Cassana. Photo: Corriere della Sera/X

The Italian visitor apparently tried to mimic the prince's pose for a photo, but when he stumbled against a 30-cm barrier, he reached out for balance, tearing the portrait.

The tourist has been identified and is cooperating with authorities. He may face criminal charges and be responsible for restoration costs.

Visitor tears oil painting in Uffizi Gallery on 21/6. Video: ANSA/X

Museum director Simone Verde stated, "The visitor wanted a unique photo but tore the painting." He added that the museum has rules to prevent inappropriate behavior towards cultural artifacts.

On 12/6, another incident occurred at the Palazzo Maffei Museum in Verona. A visitor broke a chair covered in Swarovski crystals called Van Gogh by artist Nicola Bolla. While taking a photo, the middle-aged man tripped and fell onto the chair, breaking its leg. Both visitors left immediately before staff noticed.

Damage to cultural heritage by tourists is a recurring problem in Italy, with examples including names etched into the walls of the Colosseum in Rome, inappropriate poses with statues, and wading in Baroque fountains during summer.

Ha Phuong (Stuff)