A young woman was captured on video last weekend kissing and grinding against a statue of Bacchus, the god of wine and sensuality, causing widespread outrage. The incident, which occurred in Florence, was met with strong condemnation from the country’s culture ministry and city officials after the images went viral on social media.
The Florence mayor’s office described the act as mimicking sex, expressing deep frustration over the disrespect shown to the cultural monument. Despite the tourist's identity remaining unknown, authorities suggested she was likely inebriated during the incident.
Florence City Hall announced that if the individual is identified, she faces a hefty fine and a potential lifetime ban from the city. This aligns with Italy’s strict laws against the abuse of cultural heritage.
The statue involved is a replica of the original 16th-century piece by renowned sculptor Giambologna, influenced by Hellenistic art and Michelangelo. The authentic Bacchus is housed in the Bargello Museum, while the replica is prominently displayed near the Ponte Vecchio bridge.
As the search for the tourist continues, the incident has ignited discussions about preserving and respecting cultural artifacts in popular tourist destinations.
