Siena Students Stage Mock Theft of Painting from City Hall
A dramatic scene unfolded in Siena on Tuesday afternoon as onlookers witnessed the mayor of the Italian city attempting to stop “thieves” making off with an iconic 14th-century painting. The incident, which took place at the Palazzo Pubblico, was a parody of the recent sensational Louvre heist. The “thieves” were actually students from the University of Siena, dressed in balaclavas and high-visibility vests, who had organized the prank with the mayor’s knowledge and participation.
The students, members of the Feriae Matricularum Senensium fraternity, made their way out of city hall, carrying a replica of the central part of a fresco attributed to Simone Martini, depicting Guidoriccio da Fogliano, commander of the Sienese troops, on horseback during the Siege of Montemassi. The painting is a significant piece of Sienese art and history, and its “theft” was a clever and humorous nod to the recent Louvre heist.
A Lighthearted Take on a Serious Incident
The mayor of Siena, Nicoletta Fabio, was in on the stunt and even participated in the prank, attempting to stop the “thieves” as they made their way out of city hall. The incident was caught on camera, and footage of the event showed the students running through the city’s streets, carrying the painting and changing direction after being blocked by the mayor. The prank was a lighthearted take on a serious incident, and it brought a smile to the faces of onlookers.
The students’ prank was a clever and creative way to poke fun at the recent Louvre heist, and it showcased the city’s sense of humor and ability to not take itself too seriously. The incident also highlighted the strong sense of community and camaraderie in Siena, where students and city officials can come together to create a fun and memorable experience. For more information on this story, visit Here