An 80-year-old man caused a stir in Rome this week by driving his compact luxury Mercedes-Benz A Class down the famous Spanish Steps, getting stuck halfway. Local authorities reported the incident, confirming the driver had not consumed any alcohol and received a citation for this unusual manoeuvre in the historic heart of the city.
While the man, a Rome resident, seemed puzzled about how he ended up descending the iconic steps, authorities chose not to disclose his identity or confirm whether the car belonged to him. The small vehicle was later extricated from its precarious position by firefighters using a crane.
The incident has sparked conversations surrounding the protection of iconic landmarks, as the Spanish Steps are not designed for vehicle traffic. Notably, they have previously attracted thrill-seekers, but driving down them is explicitly forbidden.
Authorities did not provide additional insights regarding the circumstances leading up to the man’s drive down the staircase, leaving many questions unanswered.
The Spanish Steps, built in the 1720s, are renowned for their beauty and have served as a backdrop for countless films. They derive their name from the Spanish Embassy located in the nearby square and have long been a hub for visitors wanting to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Rome.
This isn’t the first time a driver has faced repercussions for misusing Rome’s cultural sites. In 2022, a Saudi national was charged with aggravated damage to cultural heritage after footage showed him driving a rented Maserati down the steps, further highlighting the ongoing battle to preserve such iconic locations from reckless behaviour.