The violent storm suddenly hit Rome on Tuesday afternoon, bringing downpours on the Italian capital. During the latter, the Arch of Constantine, located near the Colosseum, was damaged by lightning, Agence France-Presse (AFP) learned on Wednesday, September 4, thanks to local authorities.
“All the fragments [de l’arc, tombés au sol] were recovered and taken to a safe place”a spokesman for the Colosseum archaeological park told AFP. “Damage assessment has already begun and analysis is continuing this morning.”he added.
This triumphal arch was erected to glorify Constantine in 315 AD, to celebrate the emperor’s victory at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge against his rival, Maxentius. Standing 25 metres high, it is undergoing maintenance work which began on Monday. It is the largest of the three triumphal arches still standing in Rome and is situated on the route of the triumphal processions, near the Colosseum.
After a hot and dry summer, Rome was hit by a sudden storm on Tuesday afternoon, accompanied by torrential rain, strong winds, thunder and lightning. More than 80 millimeters of rain per square meter fell on the historic center, roughly the amount of rain recorded on average during an autumn month, according to the municipality of Rome. Winds blowing at 90 kilometers per hour toppled trees.
Experts say climate change is upsetting climatic balances and increasing the number of extreme weather events. “It is becoming increasingly clear that the issue of climate change and its effect on our lives is now unavoidable”commented the Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri.
