Investigation Underway After Damage to Bernini's Elephant Sculpture in Rome

Italian police are investigating the recent damage to the elephant sculpture designed by Baroque artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini, located in Piazza della Minerva, Rome. The sculpture, which features an ancient Egyptian obelisk on its back, lost the tip of its left tusk, prompting concerns over potential vandalism.

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The elephant sculpture was commissioned by Pope Alexander VII after Dominican friars discovered the obelisk in their convent grounds. The design process involved a disagreement between Bernini and the friars regarding the structural support for the obelisk. Ultimately, the friars insisted on a stone support under the elephant's belly, leading to the sculpture's nickname, "Minerva’s Piglet," due to its stocky appearance. The statue has been a popular tourist attraction, situated near the Pantheon.

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Authorities discovered the 11-centimeter (4-inch) marble fragment of the tusk at the base of the statue on a recent Monday night. Police confirmed that this fragment was not part of Bernini's original work but was added during restoration efforts in 1977. The same tusk had previously broken off during an act of vandalism in 2016. In response to the latest incident, police are reviewing security footage from the area to ascertain whether the damage was caused by vandalism or if it resulted from the unusually heavy rainfall experienced in recent weeks.

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Italy's Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli condemned the incident, labeling it an "absurd act of barbarity." He emphasized the importance of protecting cultural heritage and expressed concern over the deliberate damage inflicted on the 17th-century statue.

Famed Bernini elephant statue damaged in Rome

While the investigation is ongoing, some experts and local residents have raised concerns about the adequacy of security measures around such a significant cultural monument. The repeated incidents of damage have sparked discussions about the need for improved protection for historical sites in Rome.

Famed Bernini elephant statue damaged in Rome

There is currently no consensus on whether the damage was a result of vandalism or environmental factors, such as heavy rain. The police investigation aims to clarify these circumstances, but as of now, both possibilities remain under consideration.

Famed Bernini elephant statue damaged in Rome

• “absurd act of barbarity” — Alessandro Giuli, Italy's Culture Minister

Famed Bernini elephant statue damaged in Rome

The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover the truth behind the damage to Bernini's iconic sculpture, a symbol of Rome's rich artistic heritage.

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