Lightning strikes Rome: Colosseum flooded, Arch of Constantine damaged

A powerful lightning strike during a storm in Rome damaged the city's most important monument. Water infiltrated the Colosseum, flooding parts of the underground area.

After months of oppressive heat, a storm and downpour hit Rome. Lightning struck the Arch of Constantine, causing several small fragments to fall off. The underground part of the Colosseum was flooded, necessitating a temporary closure to remove the water.

The archaeological park's management reported on Wednesday that technical staff promptly began removing the small fragments from the ancient arch and secured the area.

It was noted that the downpour coincided with scheduled maintenance of the Arch of Constantine, so urgent work following this sudden event will be combined with the pre-planned tasks.

On Wednesday morning, the underground areas of the Colosseum were closed for necessary work after the downpour. Minor damage from the phenomenon known as a "water bomb" was also reported in the area surrounding the ancient Circus Maximus stadium.

The Italian capital has been gripped by severe heatwaves several times this summer. The highest alert level, the red alert, was issued for the Eternal City.

Medical services were on standby due to numerous cases of fainting, including among tourists, while social care services primarily assisted elderly people living alone.