A tourist filmed carving names onto an inner wall at Rome’s ancient Colosseum says he did not realize how old the monument was when he acted.
UK-based Ivan Dimitrov made the comment in a letter of apology to Rome’s mayor, saying he understood “the seriousness of the deed”.
He etched “Ivan + Hayley 23” – his and his girlfriend’s names – on the 2,000-year-old amphitheater with a key.
His actions in June were filmed by a bystander and sparked condemnation. A five-day police search followed and he now reportedly faces legal proceedings.
Tourist who defaced the Colosseum offered his “heartfelt” apologies
In the letter published by Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, Dimitrov offered his “heartfelt and honest apologies to the Italians and to the whole world”.
He continues: “I admit with profound embarrassment that only after what regretfully happened did I learn of the antiquity of the monument.”
He added that he praised those who “guard the inestimable historical and artistic value of the Colosseum with dedication, care and sacrifice”.
Dimitrov, a 27-year-old believed to be living in Bristol, was filmed by another visitor who verbally reprimanded him before handing the recording to security officials.
A video of the scene was uploaded to YouTube and shared across social media.
If convicted of an offense, he could face a fine of up to 15,000 euros as well as a prison sentence of between two and five years.
Dimitrov’s lawyer told Il Messaggero that it is hoped the letter will help his client avoid the harshest sentence.
The incident prompted widespread condemnation in Italy and across the globe.
Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano said it “was offensive to everyone around the world who appreciates the value of archaeology, monuments and history”.
The Colosseum is one of the best-known symbols of Imperial Rome, and Italy’s most popular tourist site.
It is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, and is still the largest standing amphitheater in the world, despite its age. Construction began under the emperor Vespasian in 72 and was completed in 80 AD under his successor and heir, Titus.
The Colosseum is built of travertine limestone, tuff (volcanic rock), and brick-faced concrete.
It could hold an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 spectators at various points in its history, having an average audience of some 65,000.
It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles including animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Roman mythology, and briefly mock sea battles. The building ceased to be used for entertainment in the early medieval era.
It is a protected Unesco World Heritage Site, meaning it is considered to be a place of “outstanding universal value”.
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