In a bizarre incident early Tuesday morning, an elderly man attempted to drive his Mercedes A-Class down the iconic Spanish Steps in Rome, a site traditionally reserved for pedestrians only. The 80-year-old driver reached a portion of the steps before getting his vehicle stuck, prompting local authorities to intervene.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and initial assessments indicated that the historic monument remained undamaged. According to Rome police, the driver had tested negative for alcohol and was described as appearing confused at the time of the incident. The man's identity and origins were not disclosed by the authorities, but a photo captured the moment he spoke with police while waiting for assistance.
Surveillance footage shared on social media showcases the awkward descent of the car, ultimately necessitating the use of a crane by the fire department to remove the vehicle from the steps. The Spanish Steps, or Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti, are one of Italy's cherished landmarks, with strict regulations in place to protect them from vehicular traffic. Violations can incur hefty fines and prison time, reflecting the monument's cultural significance.
Witness Sowad Mujibullah, working nearby, expressed shock at the spectacle, which he initially mistook for a film production. “It should not be destroyed by these crazy things,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of preserving historic sites.
Sadly, this isn't the first instance of reckless behavior at the Spanish Steps. In 2022, a group of tourists caused extensive damage after pushing an electric scooter down the stairs, while another man infamously drove a Maserati down the steps due to a navigational error.
As authorities address this peculiar affront to one of Italy’s historical gems, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in safeguarding cultural heritage.
