Tourist Graffitied the Colosseum... Inscribed Content is 'Couple Names + Date'

Italian Minister "Will Go to Civil Trial... Realization of Justice"
Male Partner Presumed to Be Bulgarian Living in the UK

The identities of a tourist couple who vandalized the Colosseum, a cultural heritage site in Rome, the capital of Italy, have been confirmed. Their act provoked outrage not only from the Italian government but also from people around the world.

Local media, including Italy's ANSA news agency, reported on the 29th (local time) that Italian police have identified the tourist couple who vandalized the Colosseum.

Although the media did not disclose specific personal details such as their names, it was revealed that they currently reside in the United Kingdom. The male in the couple is said to have carved his and his girlfriend's names on the wall of the Colosseum. At the time, the man used the sharp part of a key to engrave the letters on the outer wall.

A man engraving his and his lover's names on the Colosseum. [Image source=Twitter]

A video capturing this act was posted on social media on the 23rd, sparking public outrage in Italy. When the man noticed the person filming, he turned his face and even smiled confidently.

The inscription the man carved on the Colosseum reads "Ivan + Hayley 23," which is presumed to be the couple's names and the date of their visit. As the video spread and controversy escalated, the Italian government stepped in to confirm their identities and promised punishment.

Gennaro Sangiuliano, Italy's Minister of Culture, said, "I thank the police for quickly identifying the perpetrators of this uncivilized and outrageous act at the Colosseum," adding, "This incident has offended everyone worldwide who values archaeology, monuments, and history."

He continued, "I hope the law will be strictly applied and justice will be served," and explained, "If the case goes to civil court, the Ministry of Culture will be the plaintiff." It is reported that the man who directly damaged the cultural heritage could face a fine of at least 15,000 euros (approximately 21.5 million KRW) and up to five years in prison.

Meanwhile, the British media outlet Daily Mail reported that the man is 27-year-old fitness instructor Ivan Dimitrov, currently residing in the UK. The media stated, "Dimitrov, originally from Bulgaria, was in Rome last weekend with his older girlfriend."