People like to make fun of “touristy” destinations in major cities. It’s not “cool” to take a tour of the Empire State Building or go to the Eiffel Tower. Of all the major tourist cities, Rome is one of the top dogs. Rome’s history and significance will destroy that cynicism no matter how anti-tourist you are. This is why, despite the cheesy reputation surrounding these sites, their value becomes apparent to us when someone damages one of these places. Romans can rest in the satisfaction that a tourist was recently arrested for driving a rental Maserati Levante through the famous historical site, the Spanish Steps in Rome. 

One of the most famous Roman historical sites was damaged by a tourist in a Maserati Levante

According to Carscoops, a 37-year-old tourist was arrested at the Milan Malpensa Airport after he was identified as the driver of a rented Maserati Levante caught on CCTV driving down Rome’s iconic Trinità Dei Monti stairs, also known as the “Spanish Steps.” 

Footage shows a black Maserati Levante clambering down the stairs in the wee hours of the morning. Strangely, the alleged driver pulled this stunt (?) with his license plates on full display, suggesting he didn’t think much of his alleged crime. Polizia Roma Capitale identified who rented the Maserati quickly by running the plates. He was intercepted at the rental company when returning the car. 

Did the Spanish Steps get damaged? 

The alleged driver is said to have damaged a number of stairs in this stunt. Outside of the many scratches, chips, and scuffs, Sky News reports that the Maserati Levante broke the 16th and 29th steps. Experts say immediate attention is required so that pedestrians can still use the stairs safely. Carscoops also mentions that the Roman Heritage Protection group said some broken bits were quickly reattached, but further restoration work is required. 

Damage reports say, “Widespread chippings, scratches, abrasions, and deposits on both ramps of the second level, attributable to the same event.” It is still unclear why this person drove down the legendary steps. 

Why are the Spanish Steps so famous? 

According to Rome Site, The Spanish Steps, built between 1723 and 1726, led from the Piazza di Spagna square to the French monastery church Trinita Dei Monti (built between 1502–1587). 

Of course, these stairs and the conjoining church are quite old. However, they are practically brand new compared to most historical sites in Rome. The site features the classic Roccoco style that colors the city with the opulence that out-of-towners have come to associate with this great ancient city. 

As a result of this major tourist attraction, the surrounding area grew over the years into a high-end fashion shopping region of the city. Despite the horrendously stupid stunt, at least it was in an appropriate vehicle.