An 80-year-old resident of Rome found himself in an unusual predicament early on Tuesday when he drove a compact luxury Mercedes-Benz A Class sedan down the historic Spanish Steps in Rome’s city center. Municipal police reported that the man became stuck part way down the famous staircase.
The incident occurred despite the Spanish Steps being clearly off-limits to motor vehicles. Police issued a citation to the driver at the scene after he tested negative for alcohol consumption. When questioned, the man was unable to provide a clear explanation for his actions. The vehicle was later removed by firefighters using a crane, as it was obstructing the famous landmark.
This is not the first time the Spanish Steps have been the site of a daring vehicular stunt. In 2022, a Saudi national was charged with aggravated damage to cultural heritage after a surveillance camera caught him driving a rented Maserati down the 135 travertine steps. The Spanish Steps, built in the 1720s, are one of Rome’s most recognizable monuments and a popular spot for both locals and tourists to gather and people-watch. They have also served as a backdrop for numerous films throughout history.
The steps derive their name from the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See, located in the nearby square. Authorities have maintained a strict policy against vehicles using the steps, reflecting their importance as both a cultural landmark and public gathering space.
