Tourist faces hefty fines after signing a 2000-year-old Italian Domus with a permanent marker

The Italian police have reported a scandalous incident involving a tourist in Herculaneum. The man vandalized frescoes on the wall of an ancient house, which has resulted in him facing a hefty fine.

Herculaneum is a small town in the Campania region, located near Mount Vesuvius. Like Pompeii, it was buried under a thick layer of ash after the volcanic eruption in AD 79. As a result, the ruins of the buildings from that time have been preserved to this day.

Even an ancient volcano could not damage the historic villa. However, a 27-year-old tourist managed to do so. The man defaced a section of the white-painted wall with an indelible black marker, leaving his signature as graffiti. The "surprise" was discovered by staff at the archaeological site, who immediately notified the police.

Police officers quickly identified the young vandal. He will be charged with property damage and distortion of artistic works and face a hefty fine.

In response to recurring acts of vandalism, Italian authorities have introduced stricter penalties this year for those who destroy monuments and cultural objects. A fine of up to 40,000 euros (approximately $42,000) can be imposed for property destruction.

– Any damage hurts our heritage, our beauty and our identity and that is why it must be punished with the utmost firmness – stated Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano in a statement.