Tourist Seriously Injured While Reportedly Trying To Climb Fencing at Rome’s Colosseum

A 47-year-old American tourist visiting Rome’s Colosseum ended up seriously injured by a metal fence and in need of rescue.

Key Insights

The American man, who lives in Taiwan, was hospitalized in serious condition after being seriously injured by a metal fence at Rome’s Colosseum.
Paramedics took over 20 minutes to remove him from the railing.
The incident highlights a pattern of tourist behavior at Italian landmarks, with previous cases including tourists breaking into the Colosseum to drink beer.

Harrowing Incident at Ancient Landmark

At around 5 p.m. at Rome’s iconic Colosseum, an American tourist based in Taiwan attempted to climb over a protective railing, reportedly in search of a better view or the perfect selfie. According to Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, the 47-year-old man suffered a severe spine injury on the metal fence surrounding the ancient amphitheater. Bystanders quickly called for emergency assistance as the man remained stuck on the fence in excruciating pain.

Emergency responders arrived quickly but faced a complex extraction process. The tourist remained conscious and cried out in pain for approximately 20 minutes until finally losing consciousness. After removal from the fence, paramedics rushed the man to San Giovanni hospital in “code red” condition. Reports indicate he required approximately 80 stitches and remained in serious but stable condition. The incident happened while the man was visiting Rome with family and friends, all of whom were questioned by police following the accident.

Pattern of Tourist Misconduct

This alarming incident highlights other concerning tourist behavior at Italy’s historical landmarks. While no injuries were involved, in 2021, two American tourists, aged 24 and 25, were fined €800 (approximately $870) after breaking into the Colosseum during early morning hours to drink beer. A passerby spotted the trespassers around 5:30 a.m. and alerted authorities. When questioned, the tourists claimed they were “just having a beer” at the ancient monument, which normally closes to the public at 4:30 p.m.

Other documented cases of tourist misconduct at the Colosseum include a 32-year-old Irish man and a 14-year-old German girl who were caught in separate incidents carving their initials into the ancient structure. Italian authorities take these violations seriously, with defacing the nearly 2,000-year-old amphitheater punishable by substantial fines and potential jail time. Prior to the 2020 health emergency, the Colosseum received approximately 6 million visitors annually, making unauthorized access and vandalism persistent concerns for preservation officials.

These types of situations are not unique to Rome. Venice authorities have similarly dealt with inappropriate tourist conduct, including people paddling in the Grand Canal and sunbathing in bikinis near churches.

Rules at Historical Sites

Italian authorities have installed barriers and railings specifically to prevent visitors from accessing dangerous or restricted areas. However, some tourists continue to disregard the rules in pursuit of unique experiences or photographs. The Colosseum’s protective measures are designed not only to preserve the historical integrity of the structure but also to preserve visitor safety.