Japanese Tourist Dies After Fall at the Pantheon in Rome

A tragic accident occurred at one of Rome’s most famous landmarks late on Friday, October 25 2025. A Japanese man, aged around 70, died after falling from the outer wall of the Pantheon.

According to reports from Italian media, the man was visiting the monument with his daughter when he suddenly lost his balance and fell about seven meters into a ditch below the perimeter wall.

Emergency responders arrived quickly and entered the restricted area through a locked gate on Via della Palombella, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators from Rome’s municipal police have opened an inquiry to understand what led to the fall.

Early accounts differ: his daughter said he may have suffered a sudden illness, while other reports suggest he might have been trying to take a photograph near the edge.

The fall occurred outside the main structure of the Pantheon, along the outer wall that faces a lowered area encircling the monument.

The spot is often crowded with tourists and street performers, especially in the evening. Lighting is limited, and the drop is not always clearly visible to visitors standing or leaning near the edge.

Located in the historic center of Rome’s Rione Pigna district, the Pantheon is among the most visited sites in Italy. Originally built as a Roman temple nearly 2,000 years ago, it now serves as a Catholic church and a major attraction.

In 2023, Italy introduced a €5 entry ticket for visitors, and more than four million people visited in 2024.

The accident has prompted discussions about safety measures around the monument. While barriers exist in certain parts of the perimeter, large sections remain low or open. Authorities are now expected to review signage and access restrictions.

For many travelers, the tragedy serves as a reminder of how crowded and uneven some historic sites can be, particularly at night or when visibility is low.

Tourists are advised to stay behind barriers and avoid climbing or sitting on low walls, which may overlook deeper areas than they appear.

The Pantheon reopened to visitors as usual on Saturday morning, but many locals left flowers near the entrance in quiet tribute to the victim.