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Wednesday, Aug 19, 2026
Outside the box.
Lightning Damages Rome's Ancient Arch of Constantine
Rome's ancient Arch of Constantine, built in 315 to celebrate Emperor Constantine's victory, was damaged by lightning during a heavy storm. Some fragments fell but were secured, and repairs have begun. The storm brought extreme weather following a dry summer, highlighting concerns over climate change.
Rome's ancient Arch of Constantine, built in 315 to celebrate Emperor Constantine's victory in the battle of Ponte Milvio, was struck by lightning during a heavy storm.
Some fragments of the monument fell off, but were recovered and secured.
Damage assessments and repair work are already underway.
The arch, standing 25 meters high, is the largest of Rome's three preserved triumphal arches and is located near the Colosseum.
The storm brought extreme weather, including heavy rain and winds up to 90 kilometers per hour, following a hot, dry summer.
Experts attribute the increase in extreme weather events to climate change, a concern echoed by Rome's mayor, Roberto Gualtieri.
Some fragments of the monument fell off, but were recovered and secured.
Damage assessments and repair work are already underway.
The arch, standing 25 meters high, is the largest of Rome's three preserved triumphal arches and is located near the Colosseum.
The storm brought extreme weather, including heavy rain and winds up to 90 kilometers per hour, following a hot, dry summer.
Experts attribute the increase in extreme weather events to climate change, a concern echoed by Rome's mayor, Roberto Gualtieri.
