An erotic mosaic panel stolen from Pompeii during World War II has been returned, marking a significant moment in the ongoing battle against cultural heritage theft. This ancient relic, dating back to the first century AD, was taken by a German Nazi captain and has recently found its way back to Italy.
- Stolen mosaic panel returned to Pompeii
- Dates from mid-last century BC to first century AD
- Mosaic was gifted by a Wehrmacht captain
- Repatriation arranged by Italian consulate in Stuttgart
- Director emphasizes historical value of artifacts
- Specialist police squad recovered over 3 million artworks
The mosaic, which depicts a pair of lovers, was discovered in Germany after the family of a deceased German citizen reached out to Italy’s Carabinieri cultural heritage protection squad on July 15, 2025. Following verification, the repatriation was facilitated by the Italian consulate in Stuttgart, highlighting the importance of restoring cultural artifacts to their rightful homes.
This return raises important questions about the fate of other stolen artifacts. How many more treasures remain unaccounted for? The ongoing efforts to repatriate such items are crucial for preserving history and culture. Key points include:
- The mosaic was likely part of a bedroom floor in Pompeii.
- Over 3 million artworks have been retrieved by Italy’s cultural protection unit since 1969.
- Similar cases highlight the illicit trafficking of antiquities.
