Learn how a tourist's reckless antics in Belgium led to $19,000 in damages to a freshly renovated, iconic statue in Brussels.
A vacationer’s recent antics in Belgium didn't just catch people's attention—it also led to a whopping $19,000 worth of damage to a national monument. On Sunday, September 10th, a tourist was caught in the act of climbing the lion statue located at the Brussels Stock Exchange building, an act which resulted in severe damage to the recently renovated structure.
A Damaging Blow to a Newly Restored Landmark
Just a day after a three-year, $150 million restoration project was completed, the individual climbed the statue and broke off a piece of it. Interestingly, the man was allegedly under the influence at the time. The statue doesn't only feature a lion but also includes a human figure holding a torch. Surveillance footage shows the moment the man was descending from his perilous perch and a part of the statue—presumed to be the torch—broke off and fell to the ground, eliciting audible gasps from stunned spectators.
Official Statement on the Incident
Nel Vandevennet, the project manager overseeing the Stock Exchange building's recent renovation, was quick to issue a public statement. "On Sunday evening, an Irish tourist, clearly in high spirits, decided to ascend the lion sculpture in front of the Brussels Stock Exchange building. Unfortunately, he broke off 'The hand with a torch,' a newly restored part of the monument," Vandevennet told VRT NWS.
The Costly Road to Repair
According to Vandevennet, mending the statue won't be an easy or cheap affair. The work must be performed by skilled artisans and will likely require a considerable amount of time and financial resources. "This is a listed heritage site, and the monuments and landscapes agency of the Brussels region will be closely monitoring the repair process," Vandevennet added.
The Aftermath of the Folly
Authorities later arrested the man at a nearby fast-food establishment. According to Brussels Police, an official police report has been filed against the individual for causing the damage. Flemish media outlet Het Nieuwsblad disclosed that the cost of restoring the damaged part of the statue amounts to approximately $18,750 and that authorities intend to have the tourist foot the bill for the damages.
A Sad Turn of Events for a Restored Treasure
"We had hoped that the statues, which have only just been restored to their former splendor, including two lions that were in poor condition, would receive greater respect. It's truly unfortunate that this incident occurred," lamented Vandevennet.
While legal proceedings are ongoing, this regrettable episode serves as a stark reminder of the need for public responsibility when it comes to preserving historical and cultural landmarks.