Why Do Idiots with Cameras Keep Destroying Priceless Ancient Statues in Lisbon?

We’ve written about damage caused by careless photographers before, but something is going on in Lisbon that is really unfathomable. There have been two incidents there recently in which idiots with cameras have accidently damaged priceless statues beyond repair—simply because they weren’t paying attention.

We’re not naming names, but the most recent tragedy occurred earlier this week when a Brazilian tourist at Lisbon’s National Museum of Ancient Art backed into the 18th-century St. Michael sculpture while photographing another ancient relic. The guy was originally reported to have been taking a selfie, but witnesses corrected the account.

Museum officials said they believe the damage is irreparable, although they may attempt a restoration. Deputy Director of the museum Jose Alberto Seabra Carvalho noted, “I’ve been working in the museum for many years and cannot recall anything similar happening. Portuguese authorities are investigating the incident.

Back in May another tourist, who was taking a selfie, destroyed a statue atop Lisbon’s Rossio train station. In that incident a 24-year-old scaled the façade of the famous train station, intending to take a selfie with the priceless 16th century statue of Portuguese King Dom Sebastiao.

The so-called “photographer” caused the statue to fall to the ground and shatter. In that case the offender was arrested as he tried to flee and is now awaiting trial for the destruction of public property.

If you have the stomach for more carnage, take a look at our earlier story about a group of photographers who burned down a national monument in Florida while light painting with steel wool.

Moral of the story: Don’t be an idiot.

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