Historic Roman Arch Damaged by Lightning Strike
The Arch of Constantine, a renowned ancient Roman monument, has suffered damage due to a lightning strike during a severe thunderstorm in Rome. The monument, located near the Colosseum, is a popular tourist attraction.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, when a powerful downburst brought heavy rain and strong winds to the Italian capital. The storm caused widespread flooding and downed trees, leading to significant disruptions in the city.
The lightning strike struck the southern side of the Arch of Constantine, dislodging several blocks of stone. Archaeological park staff quickly responded to the incident and secured the fallen fragments. Damage assessments are currently underway, and repairs will begin shortly.
The Arch of Constantine was built in the 4th century AD to commemorate the victory of Roman Emperor Constantine over his rival, Maxentius. The monument is approximately 25 meters high and is a prominent feature of the Colosseum area.
The storm also caused damage to other parts of the city, including the sinking of a yacht belonging to British tech tycoon Mike Lynch. The mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, described the downburst as an unprecedented weather event due to its intensity and concentration in a short period.
The incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of ancient monuments to extreme weather events. It is essential to invest in conservation efforts to protect these invaluable historical treasures for future generations.
