(ANSA) - ROME, AUG 23 - Unknown individuals on Tuesday night
defaced the columns of the iconic Vasari Corridor in Florence,
on the side facing the Arno river, with letters and numbers.
The Corridor is an elevated enclosed passageway connecting the
Palazzo Vecchio with the Palazzo Pitti, crossing the Ponte
Vecchio. It was built in 1565 after Florence's then rulers
decided they wanted to move freely and secretly between the seat
of city government and their private palace.
In particular, one of the graffit inscribed on the monument
reads 'Dks 1860', an indecipherable motto.
Florence Mayor Dario Nardella condemned the "shameful act of
vandalism" and announced an immediate inquiry to "identify these
despicable individuals in order to punish them appropriately",
stressing that those who damage cultural heritage "commit a very
serious crime".
Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano said "They must understand
that even a small scratch will henceforth be prosecuted".
(ANSA).
Vasari Corridor columns defaced
Shameful act by despicable individuals says mayor