Incident Details
Police stated that the driver was cited for driving on the monument in Rome’s historic center. The removal of the vehicle required specialized equipment due to its position on the steps. ## Historical Context The Spanish Steps, named after the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See in the nearby square, have been featured in numerous films and remain a beloved landmark. Their history dates back to the 1720s when they were constructed. The steps are not designed for vehicular traffic, making such incidents rare but potentially damaging.
Previous Incidents
In recent years, there have been instances where thrill-seekers have attempted to drive down the steps. The most notable incident before this was in 2022 when a Maserati was driven down the steps, resulting in charges against the driver.
Police Response
The police response included citing the driver and arranging for the removal of the vehicle. The use of a crane by firefighters was necessary to safely remove the car from the steps without causing further damage to the monument.
