In an attempt to gain a few euros, a Dutch man has copped a fine of €550 after being caught wet-handed stealing coins from the Piazza Navona fountain in Rome.
The 38-year-old tried to hide the loot after realising police had seen him climb into the Fontana del Moro of Bernini and Giacomo della Porte, NOS reports.
The city of Rome has been enforcing a crackdown on rude and uncivilised behaviour of tourists in recent months. Bathing in fountains is forbidden, and drinking alcohol on the street after 23:00 is no longer allowed.
The city is threatening strict and increasing penalties for tourists who do not obey the rules, so if you’re planning on going to Rome on a bender it’s time to reconsider.
This is just of many Western European cities that is falling victim to tourists who don’t follow the rules. Amsterdam has long been experiencing problems with tourists, launching a campaign last year to encourage visitors to respect the city.
What do you think of this daring theft? Have you seen tourists behaving inappropriately in other cities?
Image: Wikimedia Commons
