Tourists stealing cobblestones and mosaic from ancient Rome

Police chief Antonio Del Greco said: “It’s a particularly unusual theft
and at the same time it’s one that we are finding is on the increase and
happening more and more often.

“Those primarily responsible are northern Europeans who have simply
picked up a loose cobble stone or piece of mosaic they have found while
wandering around Rome.

“They then put it in their luggage and take it home with them as a
souvenir of their holiday – we have also found large milestones made from
marble in suitcases that have been taken from the Appian Way.”

Although the items have no real monetary value, Mr Del Greco said it was
technically still theft and they are “taking away part of Rome’s
culture and heritage”.

Mr Del Greco added that those caught were left “highly embarrassed”
but were not arrested, instead they were cautioned and allowed to return
home and their ancient souvenirs returned.

Umberto Broccoli, superintendent of culture for Rome city council, said: “I
should warn all tourists that the city’s rich heritage should not be
touched. What these people do by stealing these items is show their
ignorance.

“I can understand the legend and splendour that is Rome but that does not
mean bits of it should be stolen by all means tourists should take as many
pictures as they like but they should not help themselves to cobblestones or
other items even if they appear to be discarded.

“If they want a souvenir of their visit then they should buy something
from a shop.”

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